Blank Map Challenge: Plot the Controls

Pairs walk and jog the playground with a map that shows no controls, find ten control flags with symbols and draw each one where it belongs on the map. Then they compare with the master map. Students connect terrain to map and practice accuracy.

How to play

1. Before class, place 10 flags, each with a different symbol (star, moon, triangle...). Prepare blank playground maps and a master map showing every position.
2. Take 3 minutes to orient the map with the class and review the features: goals, hoops, trees, buildings.
3. In pairs, for 10 minutes, students search for the flags. When they find one, they stop, orient the map and draw the symbol at the exact spot.
4. Back at the start area, they compare with the master map: 2 points if a symbol is within 1 cm (half an inch) of the right spot, 1 if it's in the right area. Allow 3 minutes.
5. Second round, 4 minutes: the teacher moves 3 flags and pairs must find which ones moved and fix their map.
6. Wrap up for 2 minutes by showing the most common mistakes.

Rules

• Stop to draw; no writing on the run.
• No copying other pairs' maps.
• Do not move the flags.
• Run in open areas and stay inside the playground boundaries.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: place flags in accessible areas; the student can be the one who draws.
• Autism or shyness: keep a steady partner and give a step card: find, stop, orient, draw.
• Fitness level: for more challenge, set a 7-minute limit on the search.

Learning goals

• Plot objects found on the ground accurately on a map.
• Orient the map before drawing.
• Self-check the accuracy of their work against a model.

Equipment for a class of 25

• maps: 14
• control flags: 10
• pencils: 13

Teacher tip

Use big, easy-to-draw symbols. Many kids draw without orienting the map and end up with a mirror image; show that mistake on the board so they can spot it.

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