Exact Sum Orienteering

Every control flag on the map carries a number from 1 to 9, and pairs must hit an exact target number by adding up the flags they visit. The activity blends map reading with mental math and choosing the shortest route.

How to play

1. Place 16 flags and mark each one's number (1 to 9) on the map. Each real flag also has a check letter.
2. Take 2 minutes to explain. Each pair gets a map, a pencil and a card with a target number, for example 20.
3. Pairs get 1 minute to decide on the map which flags to add and in what order, aiming for the shortest distance.
4. They visit the flags and write down the letters. At the start area, the teacher checks that the sum is exact.
5. Each correct sum earns 1 point, plus a bonus point if it took 3 flags or fewer. Then they get a higher target; play for 14 minutes.
6. In the last 3 minutes, two pairs explain their plan on the whiteboard and the class looks for other solutions.

Rules

• You can't use the same flag twice in one sum.
• Partners reach each flag together.
• No running while reading the map: do the math standing still.
• Stay inside the playground boundaries.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: put high-value flags in accessible areas and give targets solvable there.
• Autism: use fill-in-the-blank cards (_ + _ + _ = 20) and large numbers on the flags.
• Fitness level: give targets with nearby or far-off solutions depending on each pair's endurance.

Learning goals

• Plan an efficient route on the map.
• Apply mental math during a movement game.
• Check their own answers and fix mistakes independently.

Equipment for a class of 25

• control flags: 16
• maps: 13
• pencils: 13
• target cards: 40
• whiteboard: 1

Teacher tip

Prepare a list of targets with several solutions to avoid a line at the start area. If a pair always heads for the biggest number without thinking about distance, have them explain their plan before leaving.

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