Exact Description: Big Circle, the Clue Decides

In pairs, students place controls and write an exact description (feature and position), but on the map they draw a very large circle; the searching pair only succeeds if the description is clear. It builds the language of control descriptions and precision.

How to play

1. Vocabulary on site: feature (light pole, bench, tree), detail (corner, foot, end) and position (north side, between, under) with examples (6 min).
2. Each pair places three controls, draws a circle about 15 m wide on the map and writes the description (8 min).
3. Swap maps: another pair searches using only the circle and the description (10 min).
4. Feedback: the searchers say which description was clear and which was vague, and it gets rewritten (4 min).
5. The pair who placed the controls collects them (2 min).

Rules

• Every description has a feature and a position; no hot-and-cold hints.
• No controls up high, in trash cans or in off-limits areas.
• Search on foot inside the circle.
• If it doesn't turn up in four minutes, move on and note it.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students with dyslexia: may draw the description with simple symbols.
• Low vision: a partner reads the description aloud and controls are brightly colored.
• Limited mobility: place and search in flat, accessible areas.

Learning goals

• Describe the position of a point precisely.
• Use the language of control descriptions.
• Value clarity in the information we give others.

Equipment for a class of 25

• orienteering markers: 30
• schoolyard maps: 15
• pencils: 15

Teacher tip

To know which side is north, have them set the map using landmarks. Markers can be clothespins with a colored ribbon and a written code.

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