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Lesson 4 - Navigation and Teamwork Challenges

Trust & Team Navigation

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Year 6

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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Big Question

How can we use navigation skills and teamwork to overcome complex outdoor challenges?

Learning Objectives

Navigate confidently using simple maps and reference points
Demonstrate effective teamwork and communication in challenging situations
Apply problem-solving skills to overcome group challenges

Key Outcomes

Students will successfully navigate using maps with accuracy and confidence
Students will communicate effectively and support teammates during challenges
Students will demonstrate agility, balance, coordination and precision in outdoor activities

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Arrange in a grid pattern with clear spacing for navigation

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or playground equipment

Mats

8-10 different routes

Include clear cone positions and route markings

Alternative: Hand-drawn maps or laminated playground layouts

Cards

20-30

Place under cones with age-appropriate mathematical challenges

Alternative: Whiteboard markers to write on cones

Fabric Pieces

30 pieces (40cm length)

Check for smooth edges and no sharp points

Alternative: Pool noodles cut in half lengthwise, or cardboard tubes

Golf Balls

Ensure balls roll smoothly in guttering

Alternative: Tennis balls, ping pong balls, or small bean bags

Key Vocabulary

Navigation

Finding your way from one place to another using maps and landmarks

Route

The path or course taken to reach a destination

Orientation

Positioning yourself correctly in relation to your surroundings

Precision

Exact and accurate movements or actions

Communication

Sharing information clearly and listening to others effectively

Coordination

Working together smoothly and efficiently as a team

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of maps and directions
Experience working in small groups
Fundamental movement skills including running and balancing

Current Skills

Map reading and navigation skills
Advanced teamwork and communication
Precision movement and problem-solving

Next Steps

Complex route planning and orienteering
Leadership roles in outdoor challenges
Independent problem-solving in unfamiliar environments

Milestone Indicators

Confident map interpretation without adult support

Effective team leadership and conflict resolution

Precise movement control under pressure

Key Teaching Points

Always orient maps to match the direction you're facing before starting navigation
Effective teamwork requires clear communication and shared decision-making
Precision activities demand controlled movements and patience over speed
Problem-solving improves when teams discuss strategies before acting
Navigation skills transfer to many real-life situations and other subjects
Persistence and positive communication help teams overcome challenging tasks
Self-assessment helps students understand their learning and set future goals

Common Misconceptions

Maps should always be held with north at the top - teach orientation to surroundings instead
Fastest teams are always the most successful - emphasise accuracy and teamwork over speed
Mathematical challenges are separate from physical skills - show integration of mind and body
Precision tasks are only about individual skill - highlight teamwork and communication requirements
Navigation is only useful in PE - demonstrate cross-curricular applications and life skills
Making mistakes means failure - reframe as learning opportunities and skill development

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short activity bursts with clear objectives, regular position changes, hands-on equipment use, immediate feedback and praise

dyspraxia

Simplified maps with clear symbols, additional practice time, larger equipment options, buddy support for coordination activities

autism spectrum

Clear structure and routine, visual schedule of activities, quiet reflection space available, predictable partner arrangements

visual impairment

Tactile maps with raised features, clear verbal descriptions, buddy system for navigation, audio cues for directions

hearing impairment

Visual maps and signals, written instructions available, clear demonstration of all activities, sign language support if available

physical disability

Modified routes with shorter distances, seated navigation options, adapted equipment for gutter ball, alternative precision challenges

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Mental calculations, problem-solving, spatial reasoning, map coordinates and grid references

Science

Forces and motion in ball transport, balance and coordination, teamwork as a system

Geography

Map reading skills, orientation, navigation, understanding of symbols and scale

PSHE

Teamwork, communication, leadership, resilience, supporting others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position for navigation activities, mobile support during gutter ball challenge

Observation Focus

Navigation accuracy, team communication, precision and control in equipment use

Intervention Points

Step in when teams struggle with map orientation, safety concerns arise, or negative team dynamics develop

Demonstration Notes

Use clear, exaggerated movements for map orientation, model positive team communication, show precision techniques slowly

Verbal Cues

•'Orient your map to match what you see!'
•'Communicate your plan before you move!'
•'Precision over speed!'
•'Support your teammates!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 30m x 40m or school hall, clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Dry, even surface suitable for running and precise movement activities

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Guttering pieces checked for smooth edges and no sharp points
•Cones stable and positioned to avoid collision risks
•Balls appropriate size for equipment and age group

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during chain tag and navigation activities
•Trips and falls during running between stations
•Equipment-related injuries from guttering or dropped balls

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and pathways established
•Adequate spacing between teams and activities
•Controlled pace in all running activities
•Equipment checks before and during use

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all activity areas
•Monitor high-movement activities closely
•Check equipment handling and safety rules

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess situation, apply appropriate first aid, contact support if needed