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Lesson 5 - Map Reading and Orienteering Skills

From Team Challenges to Tactical Orienteering

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Year 9

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Outdoor Adventurous Activities

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Big Question

How can we use maps to navigate and explore our environment safely and effectively?

Learning Objectives

Develop basic map reading and orientation skills
Learn to identify and record key geographical features accurately
Apply orienteering principles in practical navigation tasks

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to orientate a map to their surroundings
Students will accurately identify and mark key features on a master map
Students will demonstrate improved spatial awareness and navigation skills

Equipment & Resources Required

Maps

10-15 laminated photos

Keep secure and use for checking student answers

Alternative: Large laminated site map or digital version on tablet

Pencils

1 per student

Ensure all have working writing implements before starting

Alternative: Whiteboard markers if using laminated maps

Whiteboards

1 per group for warm-up

Clean boards ready for picture drawing activity

Alternative: A4 clipboards with paper

Cones

20-30

Mark photo locations and boundary areas clearly

Alternative: Bean bags or sports bibs

Key Vocabulary

Map orientation

Aligning a map so that it matches the direction you are facing in the real world

Features

Natural or man-made landmarks that can be identified on both maps and in the environment

Orienteering

The sport of navigation using a map and compass to find specific locations

Triangulation

Using three known points to determine your exact position on a map

Collaboration

Working together effectively as a team to achieve shared goals

Non-verbal communication

Communicating through gestures, body language, and visual signals rather than words

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of maps and plans from geography lessons
Experience working in teams on problem-solving activities
Awareness of safety considerations in outdoor environments

Current Skills

Map orientation using natural and artificial features
Feature identification and accurate recording
Collaborative navigation and decision-making

Next Steps

Advanced compass work and bearing taking
Route planning and time estimation
Independent orienteering courses

Milestone Indicators

Can orientate map within 45 degrees of correct alignment

Identifies 8/10 photo locations within 10 metre accuracy

Demonstrates clear communication during group navigation tasks

Key Teaching Points

Map orientation is the foundation skill - always align map with surroundings before attempting navigation
Use multiple reference points to confirm location accuracy - never rely on just one feature
Systematic approach beats rushing - encourage careful observation and methodical checking
Communication within teams is essential - ensure all group members contribute to decision-making
Safety awareness must be maintained throughout - establish and reinforce clear boundaries
Build confidence through achievable challenges - celebrate effort and improvement over perfection
Connect map symbols to real-world features - make the abstract concrete through demonstration

Common Misconceptions

Maps must always be held 'the right way up' - teach that orientation depends on direction of travel
Biggest features are always easiest to find - explain that distinctive features are often better reference points
Speed is more important than accuracy - emphasise systematic approach over rushing
Only one person needs to navigate for the group - encourage collaborative decision-making
Maps show everything exactly as it appears - explain symbolism and scale representation
Navigation is only useful in wilderness areas - connect to everyday situations and urban environments

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with movement breaks, clear boundaries and expectations, immediate feedback and praise, kinesthetic learning opportunities

dyspraxia

Simplified maps with fewer details, additional time for orientation tasks, step-by-step written guides, supportive group partnerships

autism spectrum

Clear structure and routine explained, visual schedule of activities, quiet reflection spaces available, predictable group compositions

visual impairment

Large print maps, tactile features added to maps, buddy system with clear verbal descriptions, audio descriptions of visual elements

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations clearly shown, written instruction cards provided, hand signals for group management, peer support for communication

physical disability

Modified boundaries for wheelchair access, seated map work options, adapted recording methods, inclusive group roles

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development, clear communication of instructions and descriptions

Maths

Measuring distances and angles, coordinate systems, problem-solving using logical thinking

Science

Understanding magnetic north and compass bearings, environmental awareness and observation skills

Geography

Map reading skills, understanding symbols and scales, spatial awareness and location knowledge

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration skills, building confidence through challenge, leadership development

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move continuously around the activity area maintaining visual contact with all groups, position at elevated points when possible for better overview

Observation Focus

Watch for accurate map orientation, systematic navigation approaches, effective team communication, and adherence to safety boundaries

Intervention Points

Step in when groups are struggling with basic orientation, when safety boundaries are being approached, or when team dynamics need support

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate map orientation clearly with exaggerated movements, point to real features before map features, model systematic checking approaches

Verbal Cues

•'Remember to orientate your map!'
•'Use multiple features to confirm location!'
•'Work together and share ideas!'
•'Stay within our boundary markers!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum outdoor area 50m x 40m with varied features, clear boundaries established

Surface Check

Even ground surface, free from holes or dangerous obstacles, appropriate for walking activities

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Maps laminated to prevent paper cuts
•Pencils checked for sharp points
•Photos securely attached to prevent litter
•Boundary markers clearly visible and stable

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Students becoming separated from groups during navigation
•Trips and falls while concentrating on maps
•Weather exposure during outdoor activities
•Confusion about boundaries and permitted areas

Risk Mitigation

•Clear group management with regular visual checks
•Designated safe areas clearly marked and explained
•Weather-appropriate clothing requirements communicated
•Buddy system within groups for additional safety

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Teacher positioned for maximum visibility of all groups
•Regular circulation to check group progress and safety
•Clear signal system for gathering attention quickly

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, account for all students, assess situation, apply appropriate first aid or call for additional support as needed