Map Pickup: Every Pair Brings Its Controls Home

At the end of an orienteering lesson, each pair gets a map with two or three controls circled and collects them on foot. It brings heart rates down, leaves the space as it was and reviews map reading.

How to play

1. The teacher gives each pair a map with its controls circled in red (1 min).
2. Walking, pairs collect their controls and check each code matches the map (4 min).
3. Back at base, they put them in the box in number order and everyone checks none are missing (2 min).
4. Quick round: each pair says which feature they used to reach one of their controls (1 min).

Rules

• Walk while collecting.
• Only collect controls on your own map.
• If a control is missing, tell the teacher and don't search outside the area.
• Also pick up any litter you see along the way.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: nearby controls in accessible areas.
• Low vision: a partner who describes the way and an enlarged map.
• Tired or injured students: be in charge of the box and check the order.

Learning goals

• Cool down actively.
• Take care of equipment and shared space.
• Review map reading.

Equipment for a class of 25

• schoolyard maps: 15
• boxes: 1

Teacher tip

Prepare the pickup maps while the class runs its last course. It saves a lot of time and no markers get lost.

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