Grid Reference Clue Hunt
The playground becomes a grid map with letters and numbers, and each team follows a chain of clues where the next location is given as a grid reference, just like on a topographic map. Students practice reading grid references, navigating, and making decisions as a team.
How to play
- Before class: mark a 6x6 grid on the blacktop with cones along the edges, letters A–F on one side and numbers 1–6 on the other, and hide envelopes in 24 squares.
- Explanation (3 min): read the letter (column) first, then the number (row); practice out loud with three examples by pointing to squares.
- Teams of four get a starting card with a different grid reference, such as C4, so no two teams start together.
- The team jogs to the square, finds the envelope in its color, and reads the clue: a new grid reference and one letter of the secret word.
- Each team follows a chain of six clues (15 min); when done, they unscramble the letters into the word and tell the teacher.
- Speed round (5 min): the teacher calls grid references and all teams run to the square; the last team there calls the next one.
Rules
- Each team opens only envelopes in its color and puts them back where they were.
- The team moves together; nobody gets more than two squares ahead.
- Run looking ahead and yield to other teams at crossings.
Variations
Easier
Use a 4x4 grid with the letters and numbers written in chalk inside each square.
Standard
A 6x6 grid with references only on the edges and chains of six clues.
Harder
Clues give a grid reference plus a direction, such as "from B2, two squares north," on an 8x8 grid.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student is the team navigator with the map and picks the route; the team uses smooth paths.
- Hearing impairment or shyness: the team writes the grid reference on a small whiteboard instead of shouting it.
- Fitness level: add bonus clues in far squares for teams that finish early.
Learning goals
- Read grid references to find a point on a grid.
- Move efficiently by choosing the shortest route.
- Make team decisions and communicate clearly.
Equipment for a class of 25
- cones: 24
- chalk: 6
- envelopes: 36
- clue cards: 36
Teacher tip
Plan the chains on a chart so teams don't land on the same square at the same time. It's a great step before using grid references on a real map.
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