As part of Maths topic Shape And Space: Directions P4 children were finding out the basic skills required in order to give and follow directions.
First of all they needed to understand the terms of direction/ position
F= forward T= turn R= right L = left
The left / right was very tricky.
Knowing left and right can still be difficult for some people, even adults.
So finding a Top-Tip to work it out is helpful.
Hold your hands out in front of you, palm down.
Take a look at the letter shape L made from pointing finger to thumb tip .
This is your Left
When you outstretch your left hand to the left side, everything you point at is to your left.
So if you know which direction is left L, then the other side must be right R .
To practice the skills of following and telling directions, we used a painted grid in the playground.
This grid is made up of smaller square units. These units make it easier to follow instructions.
F1 means forward 1 TR, turn right, F6 forward 6
P4s had to pretend that the direction follower was like a robot. They could only move if they were given that instruction by the direction giver.
The children found that a few things were difficult : sometimes they were giving directions from upside down as the child had to turn and face them, like a mirror image. A lot of mental gymnastics in this part.
Sometimes the mover would turn before the directions were given to them. Too keen!
After using the grid, P4s moved onto the play ground.
Here they all stood on a painted line which we called 'the start line'.
We then listened to the direction given by the teacher and moved accordingly.
After several directions, there were children all over the yard.
How did this happen?
After much talking the children worked out that some children were taking huge steps while other were walking normally. As not everyone walks the same length in their step, this means that p4 children were spread out.
We understood the importance of having a unit length that everyone can use, is very important when giving directions. So using the grid made sense to everyone.
During these activities P4s had a lot of fun trying out the direction giving and following.
