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      Compass directions: can you plan and follow routes accurately?

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can use compass directions to plan and follow movement routes accurately.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: changing direction while on the move requires you to turn on the balls of your feet and at the hips.
      2. Think: using compass directions requires you to apply spatial thinking to plan and follow routes with accuracy.
      3. Feel: imagination is required to visualise an area from an aerial view.
      4. Connect: being considerate and communicating clearly will enable others to follow your directions.

      Keywords

      • Compass - a tool or device used to show direction, helping you find North, South, East West and the bearings in between

      • Decision making - the process of choosing the best action from different options

      • Plot - to plan or mark out a route or series of actions before doing them

      Common misconception

      A compass is only needed outside.

      A compass can be used anywhere to help us gain an understanding of direction.

      Equipment

      Compass or knowledge of where North is, 9 soft markers (e.g. socks), pen and paper.

      Content guidance

      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).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What helps your body move through small spaces?

      staying stiff
      moving faster
      strong muscles
      Correct answer: using flexibility

      Q2.
      What helps you find the right solution to a challenging problem?

      copying others
      guessing quickly
      Correct answer: logical thinking
      rushing ahead

      Q3.
      What can help you make fewer mistakes during a task?

      rushing fast
      Correct answer: being patient
      skipping steps
      guessing quickly

      Q4.
      How can we help someone feel positive when a solution isn’t found?

      Correct answer: offer reassurance
      rush ahead
      tell them off
      walk away

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What must we turn to change direction effectively while on the move?

      knees
      ankles
      Correct answer: hips
      shoulders

      Q2.
      What skill is most important when using compass directions to plan a route accurately?

      physical speed
      Correct answer: spatial awareness
      muscle strength
      reaction time

      Q3.
      What skill helps you visualise an area from an aerial view?

      Correct answer: imagination
      memory recall
      physical speed
      reaction time

      Q4.
      What helps others follow your directions accurately?

      speaking loudly
      giving orders
      moving quickly
      Correct answer: clear communication

      To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Compass directions: can you plan and follow routes accurately?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...