Star Orienteering Course
From a central point, each pair runs out to find one control marked on its map and comes back before heading to the next, tracing a star pattern. It is the safest format for learning map orienteering because the teacher can supervise the whole class from the center.
How to play
- Before class, set out 10 coded controls around the playground, mark them on a simple school map, and stand at the central point.
- Form pairs, give each pair a map and a control card, and show how to turn the map so it lines up with what they see (3 min).
- The teacher gives each pair one control number; they find it on the map, go to it, and write the code on their card.
- Back at the center, the teacher checks the code and assigns a different control; pairs repeat this to collect as many as possible in 15 minutes.
- To avoid crowding, each pair starts at a different control and follows a different order.
- At the end (5 min), count the correct controls and have each pair point out on the map which one was hardest and why.
Rules
- Return to the center after every control; no chaining two in a row.
- Partners stay together and do not follow other pairs.
- Stay inside the boundaries and avoid running near doors and blind corners.
- A wrong code does not score, but the pair may go back and try again.
Variations
Easier
Put controls on very recognizable objects and draw a small icon of the object on the map too.
Standard
Pairs look for one control at a time and return to the center, aiming to complete 6 to 8 in the time available.
Harder
Use similar-looking controls with decoy codes close together and ask pairs to navigate without turning the map until they arrive.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: assign controls on smooth surfaces and at short distances from the center.
- Hearing impairment: agree on visual signals, such as raising a pinnie, to show that time is up.
- Fitness level: faster pairs get the farthest controls, while pairs who move more slowly get the closest ones.
Learning goals
- Orient the map to match features on the ground.
- Locate specific points on the playground from their map symbols.
- Manage time and effort during an orienteering task.
Equipment for a class of 25
- maps: 13
- controls: 10
- control cards: 13
- pencils: 13
Teacher tip
Keep a master sheet with the correct codes and note which control each pair is after so you can spot a lost pair right away.
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