Aim
Geography: introducing map co-ordinates
Literacy link: extending descriptive language and sentence structure

Resources
Fully-charged Pixie
Board marked with 11 cm grid and co-ordinates
Sets of animals
Sets of cards: one with animal names, one with co-ordinates A1, A2 etc.

Firstly, we looked at the numbers and letters running along two sides of the grid. We discussed what they might be for. We read them off, discussing numerical and alphabetical order.

We talked about how we could now explain exactly where we wanted the animals to be placed on the board, without pointing. I showed the children how the grid is used to locate a precise reference. Then, I showed how to carry out a verbal instruction such as, "Put the calf on 2B." The children took turns to put the animal on the Pixie and program it to the correct grid reference. Initially, they followed my instructions then gave instructions to each other.

Two sets of cards can be made, one with animals available for children to use, the other with grid references. The cards are placed face down in two piles. Children turn over a card from each pile and follow that instruction, allowing the class teacher to leave the activity whilst still keeping the children focused.

Note on the lesson
The board has a wipe-clean surface, making it possible to draw any number of maps, towns and playgrounds with board markers. This activity enables children to develop verbal reasoning, giving and receiving instructions, and co-operative skills.