Lesson 3 - Point and Return Navigation
Strategic Orienteering: Map Reading to Competitive Navigation
•Year 6
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
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How can effective teamwork and navigation skills help us successfully complete orienteering challenges?
Learning Objectives
- To develop map reading and orientation skills using school ground maps
- To work effectively in pairs to locate specific points and return to base
- To demonstrate leadership and cooperation while navigating orienteering courses
Key Outcomes
- Students will successfully orientate maps and locate marked points
- Students will demonstrate effective teamwork strategies during navigation tasks
- Students will understand and apply compass directions in practical situations
Equipment & Resources Required
Laminated maps with orienteering points clearly marked
Alternative: Hand-drawn simple maps of outdoor area
Set up as compass points and navigation checkpoints
Alternative: Laminated cards, bean bags, or playground markers
For signalling return to base
Alternative: Bell or voice commands
For students to rest maps on while navigating
Alternative: Hard-backed folders or books
For recording findings at checkpoints
Alternative: Dry-wipe markers for laminated maps
Key Vocabulary
To position the map so it matches the direction you are facing on the ground
The process of planning and following a route from one place to another
A direction expressed as one of the eight main compass points
A specific point marked on the map that must be located during orienteering
The starting and returning point for all navigation activities
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic understanding of maps and symbols
- Experience working in pairs cooperatively
- Knowledge of cardinal compass directions (N, S, E, W)
Current Skills
- Map orientation and re-orientation techniques
- Point-to-point navigation using maps
- Strategic planning for multi-point courses
- Effective partnership communication during navigation
Next Steps
- Complex orienteering courses with multiple checkpoints
- Time-based navigation challenges
- Leading small groups through orienteering activities
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Always orientate the map before attempting navigation
- Encourage students to plan routes before setting off rather than just running
- Emphasise partnership communication and shared decision-making throughout
- Return to base after each checkpoint to maintain safety and check progress
- Strategic thinking about checkpoint selection is as important as navigation skills
- Celebrate different types of success - teamwork, improvement, and problem-solving
- Map features are more reliable than just following directions or guessing
Common Misconceptions
- Maps always have to be held with North at the top - teach that maps should match the ground
- Orienteering is just about running fast - emphasise strategy and careful navigation
- Only the person holding the map can navigate - encourage both partners to be involved
- If you get lost, you should keep looking - teach students to return to known location and re-orientate
- Easy checkpoints aren't worth doing - explain that strategic point collection can be very effective
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter navigation distances initially, frequent check-ins with teacher, clear and simple instructions, movement breaks as needed
dyspraxia
- Simplified maps with key features highlighted, extra support with map orientation, longer time allowances, buddy system
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of activities, defined boundaries marked clearly, quiet space available, structured partner partnerships
visual impairment
- Large print maps, high contrast markers, buddy system with sighted partner, verbal descriptions of checkpoint locations
hearing impairment
- Visual signals instead of whistle, written instructions, clear line of sight to teacher, buddy system for communication
physical disability
- Shorter distance checkpoints, accessible routes only, powered wheelchair suitable paths, modified point system
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances on maps, calculating point scores, using coordinates and grid references
Science
Forces and motion during movement, understanding how compasses work
Geography
Map reading skills, understanding symbols and keys, compass directions and navigation
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, leadership skills, perseverance when facing challenges
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central base position with good visibility across orienteering area
Observation Focus
Watch for map orientation accuracy, partnership cooperation, and safe movement
Intervention Points
Step in if students are struggling with map reading or if partnerships become difficult
Demonstration Notes
Always demonstrate map orientation clearly before students attempt independently
Verbal Cues
- •'Remember to orientate your map first!'
- •'Work together to plan your route!'
- •'Take your time and think about your strategy!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large outdoor area minimum 50m x 50m with varied terrain and features
Surface Check
Check ground for hazards, holes, wet/slippery areas, and obstacles
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Ensure maps are laminated to prevent tearing
- •Check cones are visible and not damaged
- •Whistle signal audible across whole area
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Students getting lost outside designated boundaries
- •Collisions when moving between checkpoints
- •Trips and falls on uneven outdoor terrain
- •Weather exposure during outdoor activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clearly establish and mark boundaries before starting
- •Position additional adults at key supervision points
- •Brief students on safe movement and awareness of others
- •Have clear procedure for lost or missing students
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Teacher maintains central base position with clear sightlines
- •Position additional adults near potential hazards or blind spots
- •Regular headcounts when students return to base
Emergency Procedures
Whistle signal for immediate return to base, first aid kit accessible, mobile phone for emergency contact