Compass Bearings and Pacing

In groups of three, students learn to follow a compass bearing and measure distance with their own pace count to arrive at a specific cone. It covers basic compass use, distance estimation, and accuracy when traveling.

How to play

1. Spend 4 minutes showing how to hold the compass flat at chest height, turn the dial, and line up the red needle with north.
2. Each student counts how many paces (every second step) they take over a measured 20-yard stretch to learn their personal pace count (3 min).
3. Form groups of three and give each a compass and a challenge card with three directions such as: 90 degrees, 15 paces.
4. From a start cone, the group follows each direction taking turns: one sets the bearing, one counts paces, and one checks; at the end they should reach a specific colored cone (8 min).
5. If they reach the right cone, they write down its color and pick up a new card; if not, they return to the start and try again, checking their technique.
6. Finish with a 5-minute challenge: each group writes a card for another group and checks whether that group arrives at the intended cone.

Rules

• Always keep the compass flat and away from phones, keys, and metal goals.
• The bearing, pacing, and checking jobs rotate with every direction.
• Walk looking ahead; the bearing holder does not stare only at the compass.
• Return compasses to the bucket after each card so none get lost.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student can keep the bearing role while a partner paces, or measure with wheel turns instead of steps.
• Visual impairment: use a large-dial compass and have a partner describe where the needle is pointing.
• Fitness level: give longer legs to students who need more activity and add an easy jog between directions.

Learning goals

• Use a compass to follow a simple bearing.
• Estimate distance using one's own pace count.
• Share jobs within a group and check the result.

Equipment for a class of 25

• compasses: 9
• colored cones: 12
• challenge cards: 24

Teacher tip

Check beforehand that there are no large metal objects near the area, since they throw off the needle. Space the target cones at least 5 yards apart so a wrong bearing is obvious.

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