Children learn to orient themselves using cardinal directions, maps, a compass, and observations of the Sun and shadows. Direction games, map work, art, pirate play, phonics, odd-and-even investigations, dance, calming exercises, and cooking reinforce spatial language through action.
What children learn
- Name and use the four cardinal directions: north, east, south, and west.
- Explore how a compass identifies direction.
- Follow and describe directions on a map.
- Investigate how the Sun and changing shadows can support orientation.
- Distinguish odd and even numbers while reading selected CVC word families.
Key activities
- Playing a Four Corners game with cardinal-direction flashcards
- Exploring a compass and following directions on a map
- Making concentric-circle dot art with watercolours and found shapes
- Investigating sunlight and tracing the shadows of animal figurines
- Taking part in Pirates Pretend Play and odd-and-even number games
- Making Muesli Yogurt in a fireless cooking activity
You’ll need
cardinal-direction flashcards, maps and compass, paper and chart paper, watercolours and brushes, cups and bowls, animal figurines, crayons and markers, number cards and blocks, pirate-play props, muesli yogurt ingredients
Structure: 5 days; each day: Thought of the Day, Tuning-in Time, Warm-up, Social Studies/Science, Creative Learning, English, Maths