The Curious Case at Camp Coordinate is an exciting whole-class mystery game that brings together mapping, maths and problem-solving in one engaging activity! Can your students crack the code and solve the case by following coordinates and uncovering clues hidden across Camp Coordinate?

Check out this video below to see this resource in action.

Students work together to solve clues using simple maths concepts such as perimeter, number facts and shape recognition. As each clue is solved, a new coordinate pair is revealed. Students plot the coordinates on the map and join the points to uncover a secret code that will unlock the lighthouse—and solve the mystery!

This interactive game is ideal for reviewing skills, encouraging collaboration and reinforcing coordinate systems in a meaningful context. With a student booklet, map clues, and clear teacher instructions, setup is easy and low-prep. Simply print, distribute and dive into the investigation!

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Read and plot coordinates on a grid to locate specific points
• ✅ Use mathematical reasoning to solve clues and uncover information
• ✅ Reinforce concepts such as perimeter and number facts in a problem-solving context
• ✅ Collaborate with peers to complete a multi-step challenge
• ✅ Apply mapping and logic skills in a real-world style scenario

What’s Included:

• Printable student booklet (pages 4 and 5 – double-sided)
• Clue cards (pages 2 and 3 – cut and distribute)
• Display page for introducing the mystery
• Answer booklet for teacher reference
• Map and coordinate grid for plotting the final code

Materials Needed:

• Printed copies of the student booklet (double-sided flip on short edge)
• Cut clue cards placed around the classroom
• Pencils and rulers for map plotting
• Optional: highlighters for tracking coordinates and solutions

How to Use:

1. Print the student booklets (pages 4–5 double-sided) and distribute to each student or pair.
2. Print and cut a few sets of pages 2 and 3. Place the clue cards around the classroom.
3. Display the introduction page on your screen and set the scene for the class.
4. Students solve clues, uncover coordinate pairs and plot them on their maps.
5. Once all coordinates are plotted and joined, a secret code is revealed. Students present the code to you to “unlock the lighthouse.”

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use as a culminating activity at the end of a mapping or perimeter unit
• 💡 Set up as a maths rotation station during group lessons
• 💡 Use as a team-building task to promote communication and cooperation
• 💡 Extend by having students write their own map-based clues
• 💡 Turn it into a classroom event with themed decorations and sound effects

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Assign student roles (e.g. clue reader, plotter, recorder) to support teamwork
• 💛 Laminate clue cards for reuse across multiple classes
• 💛 Offer scaffolding by modelling one clue and coordinate pairing before students begin independently
• 💛 Use as a pre-assessment to gauge understanding of perimeter, mapping and coordinate reading

The Curious Case at Camp Coordinate is the ultimate blend of mystery, maths and mapping—guaranteed to build excitement while reinforcing key spatial and problem-solving skills. Your students will love cracking the clues and racing to unlock the lighthouse!