Where Am I? Map Relocation Challenge
In pairs, one student leads the other along a route with several turns to a spot on campus; there, the guided student opens the map, figures out where they are and navigates to a nearby control. Students practice relocation, a key orienteering skill.
How to play
- Before class, place 6 lettered cones around campus and mark them on the map. Each student gets a map and a pencil.
- Take 3 minutes to explain the roles: the guide carries the map open; the explorer keeps it folded but may look around.
- The guide jogs with the explorer for 1 minute along a route with several turns and stops at a chosen spot.
- The explorer opens the map, orients it using visible features and marks an X where they think they are: 2 points for the exact spot, 1 for the right area.
- From there, the explorer leads the pair to the nearest cone and reads its letter; partners switch roles at that cone. Play rounds for 12 minutes.
- Wrap up for 3 minutes: Which features helped you figure out where you were?
Rules
- Guides give no hints about the location until the explorer marks the X.
- Jog on paths and open areas, never in off-limits zones.
- Explorers never move with their eyes closed.
- Do not move the cones.
Variations
Easier
Play on the playground only, and the guide stops next to one-of-a-kind features (fountain, hoop).
Standard
One-minute guided routes across campus with points for locating yourself.
Harder
Guides pick spots that look alike, and explorers get only 20 seconds to mark the X.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: use smooth routes and put the cones in accessible places.
- Autism or shyness: keep a steady partner and give a step card: look, orient, mark, check.
- Fitness level: use longer guided routes for students who want more challenge, or walk for those who need it.
Learning goals
- Find their own position on a map using surrounding features.
- Orient the map with visible landmarks.
- Choose the shortest route to a nearby control.
Equipment for a class of 25
- maps: 26
- cones: 6
- letter signs: 6
- pencils: 26
Teacher tip
Push explorers to look first for one-of-a-kind features rather than things that repeat, like benches or trash cans. Set clear boundaries so every pair stays within your sight.
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