Page 54 - Year 8 Spring 2026 Knowledge Organiser

PE: Orienteering: 7 of 9

Key Terminology

Term Definition
Map Orientation Aligning the map so that its features match the physical environment.
Control Point A specific location marked on the map that participants must find.

Handrails Natural or man-made linear features (e.g., paths, fences) used to guide navigation.
Thumbing Keeping your thumb on the map at your current location to track your position.

Compass Bearings Directions measured in degrees, used to navigate accurately to a control point.
Route Planning Strategically planning the path to follow to navigate control points efficiently.
Sportsmanship Displaying respect, fairness, and positive behaviour towards others during activities.

Head: Problem Solving
Assessment Question Working Towards Expected Greater Depth
Consistently orients the map accurately and
Identifies basic map orientation with Explains how map orientation helps match
Why is it important to orient a map? explains its importance in navigation during
guidance. the environment and map layout.
real-time tasks.
Incorporates handrails strategically to
Recognises physical handrails like fences or Explains how handrails help guide
What is the purpose of using handrails? improve navigation efficiency and explains
paths with assistance. navigation effectively.
their use clearly.
Uses thumbing consistently to navigate with
Tracks position inconsistently using Explains how thumbing helps maintain
How does "thumbing" help navigation? precision and explains its importance during
thumbing, requiring reminders. accurate positioning on the map.
reflection.
Reliably uses compass bearings to navigate
How do compass bearings improve Identifies basic compass use but struggles Explains the role of compass bearings in
navigation? to follow bearings accurately. improving accuracy during navigation. and explains their significance in route
planning.
Plans optimal routes using map features and
Creates basic routes but struggles with Explains how route planning saves time and
Why is route planning important? explains adjustments made during
efficiency. energy during navigation.
navigation.
Quickly identifies errors, retraces steps, and
What should you do if you make a Recognises mistakes but struggles to Explains how to retrace steps to the last explains improvements to avoid similar
mistake? recover effectively. known location and adapt.
mistakes.