Lesson 2 - Cone Orienteering and Map Reading
Strategic Orienteering: Map Reading to Competitive Navigation
•Year 6
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
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How can we work as an effective team to navigate challenging orienteering courses using map skills?
Learning Objectives
- To develop understanding of map orientation and navigation techniques
- To learn how to use a map effectively to follow routes and locate specific points
- To work collaboratively in teams to solve orienteering challenges
Key Outcomes
- Students will successfully navigate cone orienteering courses using maps
- Students will demonstrate effective teamwork and communication skills
- Students will understand basic orienteering principles and map reading techniques
Equipment & Resources Required
Pre-positioned according to orienteering course maps
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, or coloured objects
One map per pair, showing cone positions and routes
Alternative: Photocopied maps in plastic wallets
For recording points scored during courses
Alternative: Score sheets on clipboards
One per pair for recording scores
Alternative: Pencils for paper score sheets
For timing advanced challenges
Alternative: Mobile phone timers
Key Vocabulary
A sport involving navigation through terrain using a map and compass
Aligning the map so it matches the actual landscape direction
The process of finding and following a route from one place to another
A planned route with specific checkpoints to visit in order
A specific location marked on the map that must be visited
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic understanding of following simple routes
- Experience working in pairs and small groups
- Awareness of compass directions (North, South, East, West)
Current Skills
- Map orientation and alignment techniques
- Reading and interpreting orienteering maps
- Team collaboration in problem-solving situations
Next Steps
- Using compass bearings for precise navigation
- Creating own orienteering courses for others
- Advanced teamwork strategies in outdoor environments
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Map orientation is fundamental - the map must always match the real world
- Teamwork and communication are essential for successful orienteering
- Accuracy is more important than speed in navigation tasks
- Problem-solving skills develop through practice and reflection
- Every student can contribute valuable ideas to team navigation
- Building resilience when facing navigation challenges is crucial
- Map reading skills transfer to many real-life situations
Common Misconceptions
- That maps can be read in any orientation - emphasise north alignment
- That the fastest route is always the best - discuss efficiency vs accuracy
- That only one person needs to read the map - stress collaboration
- That orienteering is only about physical fitness - highlight mental skills
- That mistakes in navigation are failures - frame as learning opportunities
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide regular movement breaks, use clear boundaries and expectations
dyspraxia
- Simplify map designs, provide extra time for navigation, offer additional practice with map orientation skills
autism spectrum
- Provide clear routine and structure, use visual schedules for activities, offer quiet zones during reflection time
visual impairment
- Use high-contrast maps with raised symbols, provide verbal descriptions of course layout, buddy system with sighted partner
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals and gestures, provide written instructions, ensure face-to-face communication with clear lip reading opportunities
physical disability
- Modify courses for wheelchair accessibility, provide shorter routes, allow use of mobility aids during navigation
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Following written instructions, giving clear directions, collaborative discussion and decision-making
Maths
Using scales and measurements on maps, calculating distances between points, understanding coordinates and grid references
Science
Understanding magnetic compasses, forces affecting movement, weather conditions for outdoor activities
Geography
Map skills, compass directions, understanding symbols and keys, relating maps to real landscapes
PSHE
Teamwork skills, leadership qualities, resilience when facing challenges, communication and cooperation
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position with clear sightlines to all course areas, mobile during activities to provide support
Observation Focus
Watch for correct map orientation, effective communication between partners, safe movement during navigation
Intervention Points
Step in if students appear lost, frustrated, or unsafe; provide guidance without solving challenges completely
Demonstration Notes
Use exaggerated map orientation movements for visibility, model effective team communication, show problem-solving process clearly
Verbal Cues
- •'Check your map orientation first!'
- •'What can you see that matches your map?'
- •'Talk to your partner about the route'
- •'Take your time - accuracy over speed'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large outdoor area minimum 40m x 40m, or indoor hall 30m x 20m with clear sightlines
Surface Check
Level ground free from holes, debris, or slippery surfaces that could cause falls
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check all cones are stable and not cracked
- •Ensure maps are laminated to prevent paper cuts
- •Verify whiteboard markers have secure caps
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between teams during navigation
- •Trips and falls while reading maps and walking
- •Getting lost or separated from partner/team
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries established and regularly reinforced
- •Emphasis on walking (not running) during navigation
- •Teacher positioned for maximum area visibility
- •Buddy system maintained throughout activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position centrally to observe all teams/pairs
- •Regular circulation during course activities
- •Immediate intervention if students appear lost or distressed
Emergency Procedures
Stop all activity immediately, head count, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support as needed