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      Route planning: can you plan and map a route that others could follow?

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can plan a route using a map and compass directions that others could follow.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: orienteering requires you to move efficiently and adapt your pace to the environment.
      2. Think: maps should be orientated in the same direction as the terrain around you.
      3. Feel: being able to orientate and navigate using a map requires confidence.
      4. Connect: to complete a challenge together requires trust and collaboration.

      Keywords

      • Orienteering - an activity where you use a map to navigate and find specific locations

      • Orientate - to turn your map so it lines up with the actual directions and features around you

      • Trust - believing that someone or something is reliable, safe or will act in a positive way

      Common misconception

      You need a properly mapped area to be able to participate in orienteering.

      You can use an image from google maps or your own drawn map and still be able to participate in orienteering fully.

      Equipment

      9 soft markers, pen, paper, scissors, 4 - 8 plastic containers or stones, a google map print out of the working area or a hand drawn map.

      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 is the main purpose of a compass?

      Correct answer: show direction
      track speed
      mark location
      measure distance

      Q2.
      Why should you turn on the balls of your feet when changing direction?

      increases stride length
      Correct answer: improves balance
      builds strength
      saves energy

      Q3.
      Why are spatial awareness and thinking important when orienteering?

      to move faster
      to follow rules
      Correct answer: to plan routes
      to build fitness

      Q4.
      What makes instructions easier for others to understand and follow?

      giving commands
      speaking faster
      repeating loudly
      Correct answer: clear communication

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Why is it important to adapt your pace when orienteering?

      to waste energy
      to avoid rules
      to increase speed
      Correct answer: to move efficiently

      Q2.
      Why should a map be orientated to match the terrain around you?

      to move faster
      to reduce effort
      Correct answer: to improve accuracy
      to follow rules

      Q3.
      What personal quality is important when orientating and navigating using a map?

      physical speed
      Correct answer: confidence
      muscle strength
      flexibility

      Q4.
      What is essential for completing a challenge successfully with others?

      individual speed
      clear authority
      physical strength
      Correct answer: trust and collaboration

      To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Route planning: can you plan and map a route that others could follow?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...