Strategic Orienteering: Map Reading to Competitive Navigation
•Year 6
•Outdoor Adventurous Activities
•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
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
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Measuring distances on maps, calculating point scores, using coordinates and grid references
Forces and motion during movement, understanding how compasses work
Map reading skills, understanding symbols and keys, compass directions and navigation
Teamwork and cooperation, leadership skills, perseverance when facing challenges
Central base position with good visibility across orienteering area
Watch for map orientation accuracy, partnership cooperation, and safe movement
Step in if students are struggling with map reading or if partnerships become difficult
Always demonstrate map orientation clearly before students attempt independently
Large outdoor area minimum 50m x 50m with varied terrain and features
Check ground for hazards, holes, wet/slippery areas, and obstacles
Whistle signal for immediate return to base, first aid kit accessible, mobile phone for emergency contact
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