Drop-Off: Find Yourself on the Map

In pairs, one student leads the other along a winding route while the follower keeps the map closed; at the stop, they open it and have to mark where they are. It trains relocation, the key skill when someone gets lost.

How to play

1. Technique: set the map, find two big features you can see, place yourself between them and confirm with a third (5 min).
2. Round 1 walking: A leads B for a minute with B's map closed; B opens it, marks the spot within 30 seconds and A checks (8 min).
3. Round 2: from the stopping point, B navigates to the nearest control and writes its code (8 min).
4. Switch roles and repeat both rounds at a jog (7 min).
5. Wrap-up: which features in the yard help most with relocating (2 min).

Rules

• The leader picks safe routes and warns about steps and obstacles.
• The map really stays closed on the way.
• Eyes stay open: the point is not looking at the map, not walking blind.
• Stop somewhere you won't be in anyone's way.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: routes on flat ground; the partner pushes or walks alongside, as preferred.
• Low vision: an enlarged map and large reference features.
• Students with anxiety: very short routes at first and always with a trusted partner.

Learning goals

• Relocate on the map using the surroundings.
• Set the map using reference features.
• Choose a route from an unknown point.

Equipment for a class of 25

• schoolyard maps: 30
• pencils: 30
• orienteering markers: 10

Teacher tip

This game ties in with what to do if you get lost on a field trip: stop, set the map and look for landmarks. Common mistake: hunting for small details; insist on starting with the big features.

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