Measures of Turn: Maps Activity is a fun and interactive way for students to practise directional language and turning concepts. This cut-and-paste challenge asks students to carefully interpret directional clues and correctly place images on themed maps—then plan a path to help a character return to their lost mode of travel!

Using terms like quarter turn, half-turn, three-quarter turn, full turn, left, and right, students must follow instructions to accurately position each item. Once placed, they’ll then draw a navigational path through the map. With clear structure and engaging storylines, this resource blends mathematical thinking, spatial awareness and sequencing with imaginative problem solving.

With three themed worksheets—Lost in Space, On the Farm, and Treasure Island—students help Abi the Astronaut, Frankie the Farmer, and Pedro the Pirate return to their spaceship, tractor and ship. Each worksheet follows the same design format, making it perfect for scaffolded practice. Whether used as part of a lesson, group rotation, assessment or a relief folder favourite, Measures of Turn: Maps offers flexibility, engagement and skill-building all in one!

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Interpret and follow directional instructions using turning terminology
• ✅ Identify and apply quarter, half, three-quarter and full turns
• ✅ Strengthen understanding of left and right in directional contexts
• ✅ Plan and draw a path through a map using logical sequencing
• ✅ Build confidence in spatial reasoning and movement planning

What’s Included:

• 3 themed cut-and-paste map worksheets:
  • - Lost in Space (Abi the Astronaut)
  • - On the Farm (Frankie the Farmer)
  • - Treasure Island (Pedro the Pirate)
• Step-by-step turn instructions using directional language
• Answer sheets for easy correction

Materials Needed:

• Printed worksheets and image pieces
• Scissors and glue sticks
• Pencils or markers to draw the return path
• Optional: A3 copies for group work or younger learners

How to Use:

1. Introduce or review key turn terms (e.g. quarter turn right, half turn left).
2. Provide each student or group with a themed worksheet and image set.
3. Students read and follow the instructions to place each image correctly.
4. Once all objects are placed, they draw a path to help the character navigate back to their vehicle.
5. Use the answer sheets to check placement and discuss reasoning as a class.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use during a measurement unit focused on direction and movement
• 💡 Set up as a small group task with teacher support in rotations
• 💡 Include in your assessment folder as evidence of understanding turning language
• 💡 Pair with a movement break or whole-class kinesthetic activity to act out directions
• 💡 Extend the task by having students create their own map-based story and instructions

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Enlarge to A3 for younger learners or students requiring more space to cut and paste
• 💛 Store each map set in a labelled folder or zip-lock bag for easy prep
• 💛 Use as a visual and practical review before digital direction-based games or coding activities
• 💛 Encourage students to use turn terms aloud as they complete the task to reinforce vocabulary

Measures of Turn: Maps Activity offers a rich, visual and story-driven way for students to practise directional instructions, build movement-based vocabulary, and apply logical planning—perfect for learners in Year 1 through early Year 3.