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      Collaborate effectively to complete a timed course

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can orient a map and find points in order to reach as many as possible within the time limit.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: we have to move quickly with our partners to locate as many points as possible in an allocated time.
      2. Think: spending time planning our route before starting the orienteering course shows good decision-making skills.
      3. Feel: supporting our partner through challenges during the course demonstrates strong teamwork and determination.
      4. Connect: when orienteering, striving to include our partners when making decisions shows excellent cooperation skills.

      Keywords

      • Course - a set route marked on a map with checkpoints, or control points, that you navigate through to complete the activity

      • Route - the sequence of control points on the map that guides participants through the terrain

      • Time - the duration it takes us to complete the orienteering course

      Common misconception

      When working in pairs, one pupil who is naturally faster moves ahead quickly from point to point, leaving their partner behind.

      Both partners need to stay together so they can support each other with navigation and decision-making. If one person moves ahead alone, they miss the chance to communicate, plan effectively and succeed as a team.

      Teacher tip

      Give pupils a set amount of time to complete their route that will not allow them to complete the whole course. This will ensure they think tactically about which points to travel to in the time limit.

      Equipment

      Orienteering course, orienteering maps

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - outdoor learning

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which word describes specific locations that you must find during the course?

      goals
      tries
      Correct answer: points

      Q2.
      What are you doing when using a map to choose the best route to reach checkpoints?

      mapping
      Correct answer: navigating
      exploring

      Q3.
      Why should you decide on your route before setting off to the next point?

      Correct answer: avoid incorrect navigation
      it's quicker
      you shouldn't

      Q4.
      How can you show encouragement and teamwork?

      being the quickest
      finding the points
      Correct answer: supporting your partner

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which word describes the sequence of control points on the map that guides you through the course?

      navigation
      Correct answer: route
      track

      Q2.
      How can you show good decision-making skills before setting off on your route?

      Correct answer: planing your route
      following another pair
      preparing to run

      Q3.
      How can you cooperate well during the orienteering course?

      be the quickest
      work independently
      Correct answer: include your partner

      Q4.
      What are you showing when you support your partner and overcome challenges together?

      Correct answer: teamwork and determination
      speed and strength
      independence and loyalty

      To help you plan your 5 physical education lesson on: Collaborate effectively to complete a timed course, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...