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Lesson 5 - Timed Orienteering Course Challenge

Strategic Orienteering: Map Reading to Competitive Navigation

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Year 6

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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Big Question

How can effective teamwork and strategic planning lead to orienteering success?

Learning Objectives

To challenge students to orientate a map and locate points in a set order within a time limit
To develop strategic planning and time management skills in orienteering
To strengthen collaboration and teamwork through pair work challenges

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully navigate around an orienteering course using map orientation skills
Students will demonstrate understanding of map symbols and their practical application
Students will plan effective routes and manage time constraints during the challenge

Equipment & Resources Required

Maps

1 per pair (15 maps)

Laminated for weather protection and repeated use

Alternative: Photocopied site maps with control points marked

Cones

10-15 markers

Place at varied distances and difficulties across the area

Alternative: Coloured cones, laminated cards, or distinctive objects

Stopwatch

1 per pair (15 stopwatches)

Set to countdown timer for the allocated time period

Alternative: Mobile phones with timer function

Score Sheets

1 per pair (15 sheets)

Include space for control numbers, times, and penalty tracking

Alternative: Small notebooks or laminated recording cards

Whistles

2-3 for staff

For start, time warnings, and finish signals

Alternative: Bell or air horn for signals

Clipboards

1 per pair (15 clipboards)

To support map and score sheet during planning

Alternative: Hard-backed books for writing surface

Key Vocabulary

Orientate

To position the map so it matches the direction you are facing on the ground

Control Point

A specific location marked on the map that must be visited during orienteering

Route Planning

Deciding the order and path to visit control points most efficiently

Time Management

Balancing speed with accuracy to maximise points within the time limit

Bearing

The direction from one point to another, often using a compass

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic map orientation and compass use
Understanding of simple map symbols
Experience working in pairs for orienteering activities

Current Skills

Strategic route planning under time pressure
Advanced teamwork and communication during challenges
Time management whilst maintaining navigation accuracy

Next Steps

Multi-day orienteering expeditions
Leadership roles in outdoor adventure activities
Advanced navigation techniques using contour lines

Milestone Indicators

Students consistently orientate maps without prompting

Pairs communicate effectively and share decision-making

Strategic thinking evident in route planning discussions

Key Teaching Points

Strategic thinking in orienteering requires balancing distance, difficulty, and time constraints
Effective partnership communication is essential for navigation success under pressure
Map orientation must be consistent and frequent to maintain accurate navigation
Time management becomes critical when working within fixed deadlines
Route planning should always consider the return journey to base
Resilience and adaptability are important when initial plans need adjustment
Celebrating effort and strategy as much as final results builds confidence and learning

Common Misconceptions

Thinking that speed alone will lead to success - strategic planning is more important
Believing you must visit all controls - selective strategy often scores higher
Assuming the shortest route is always fastest - terrain difficulty affects travel time
Thinking navigation is only about reading maps - environmental awareness is equally important
Believing that working independently is better - collaboration enhances decision-making
Assuming penalties don't matter - being late can completely negate good navigation

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter time segments with regular check-ins, clear visual boundaries, fidget tools available during planning time, movement breaks built into lesson

dyspraxia

Simplified maps with fewer details, physical guidance for map orientation, extra practice time, alternative recording methods for scores

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of lesson structure, designated quiet zones for breaks, consistent routine and signals, advance preparation with maps

visual impairment

Large print maps with high contrast, buddy system with sighted partner, tactile markers at control points, audio descriptions of map features

hearing impairment

Visual signals for start/stop/warnings, written instructions on cards, sign language support if available, vibrating timer devices

physical disability

Adapted routes with wheelchair-accessible paths, modified control points at appropriate heights, extended time allowances, assistant support as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Time calculations for scoring, map scale understanding, coordinate systems, strategic problem-solving with multiple variables

Science

Forces and motion during movement, weather effects on outdoor activities, magnetic compass principles

Geography

Map reading skills, understanding of symbols and keys, spatial awareness, navigation concepts, environmental awareness

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration skills, leadership development, resilience when facing challenges, responsibility for partner safety

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central elevated position during briefing, mobile patrol during activity with focus on boundary monitoring

Observation Focus

Watch for map orientation technique, partner communication quality, time management decisions, safety awareness

Intervention Points

Step in if pairs appear lost or distressed, support struggling partnerships, enforce boundary rules, assist with time management

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated map turning for visibility, show clear finger pointing between map and ground features, demonstrate partnership communication

Verbal Cues

•'Remember to orient your map!'
•'How much time do you have left?'
•'Talk to your partner about the next control'
•'Check your position against the map features'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 80m x 60m with varied terrain and features

Surface Check

Check for holes, debris, slippery areas, and boundary hazards before lesson

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Ensure control markers are securely placed and visible
•Check stopwatches are functioning correctly
•Verify maps are up-to-date and boundaries clearly marked

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Students becoming lost or separated from partner
•Time pressure leading to unsafe rushing or risk-taking
•Trips and falls in outdoor terrain

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundary establishment with visible markers
•Mandatory pair system - no students work alone
•Regular visual monitoring of all pairs during activity
•Emergency whistle signals established and practiced
•Time warnings to prevent panic about deadline

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility across orienteering area
•Mobile supervision during activity with focus on boundary areas
•Clear sight lines to all pairs throughout challenge

Emergency Procedures

Stop signal immediately halts all activity, established procedures for lost students, first aid accessible, mobile phone for emergency contact