Participants will demonstrate preparedness, paddling skills, and self-management on flat water

that covers the requirements for Unit Standard 20818 Demonstrate paddling a craft on flat water

Materials Supplied:

● Kayaks and paddles

● Spray jacket

● Personal flotation devices (PFDs)

● Safety equipment (whistles, throw bags, pumps, paddle floats etc)

● First aid kit

To bring:

● Paddling clothing

○ top (quick dry t-shirt / poly prop top)

○ shorts or leggings to paddle in

● Lunch

● Change of clothes for after event

● Water bottle

Duration:

6 hours -9.00 am - approx 3 pm

Location:

Flat water area (example; Lake Pupuke)

Lesson Structure:

1. Introduction and Safety Briefing

● Purpose: Introduce the lesson objectives and emphasize the importance of safety.

● Instructor actions:

○ Welcome participants and introduce yourself.

○ Explain the lesson objectives.

○ Outline the session's structure.

● Safety Briefing:

○ Demonstrate how to properly wear PFDs.

○ Discuss weather conditions and any potential hazards.

○ Highlight the importance of staying within the group and listening to instructor

signals.

2. Outcome 1: Preparedness for Paddling on Flat Water

● Performance Criteria Covered:

○ 1.1: Wear or carry the required personal clothing and footwear.

○ 1.2: Participate in basic directed safety checks.

● Instructor Actions:

○ Check each participant’s clothing and footwear for appropriateness (quick-dry

clothing, secure footwear).

○ Lead a group safety check:

■ Ensure all PFDs are correctly fitted.

■ Check kayaks for safety (e.g., footrests adjusted, no leaks).

■ Confirm all participants have required equipment (whistle, water bottle).

3. Outcome 2: Paddling Skills on Flat Water

● Performance Criteria Covered:

○ 2.1: Demonstrate self-safety and care of craft and paddle when entering and

exiting the water.

○ 2.2: Demonstrate correct paddle grip and blade orientation.

○ 2.3: Use paddle strokes to control craft while following a set route.

● Instructor Actions:

○ Entering and Exiting the Water:

■ Demonstrate how to enter and exit the kayak safely (hold onto the kayak

and paddle, avoid tipping).

■ Practice with participants.

○ Paddle Grip and Blade Orientation:

■ Demonstrate correct paddle grip and orientation (hands shoulder-width

apart, blades angled correctly).

■ Check participants individually and correct as needed.

○ Paddle Strokes Practice:

■ Teach basic strokes: forward stroke, reverse stroke, and sweep stroke.

■ Set a simple route and guide participants through it, correcting technique

along the way.

4. Outcome 3: Self-Management on Flat Water (30 minutes)

● Performance Criteria Covered:

○ 3.1: Demonstrate care for and correct use of all equipment.

○ 3.2: Follow simple instructor signals (stop, right, left, come in).

○ 3.3: Maintain contact with paddle and craft in capsize situation.

● Instructor Actions:

○ Equipment Care:

■ Emphasize treating equipment gently (avoid dragging kayaks).

■ Show proper paddle care (avoid leaving in direct sunlight).

○ Instructor Signals:

■ Demonstrate and practice signals for stop, right, left, and come in.

■ Use signals during a short paddling drill.

○ Capsize Drill:

■ Explain the capsize procedure.

■ Demonstrate maintaining contact with the kayak and paddle.

■ Allow participants to practice in shallow water with support.

5. Paddle journey

● Purpose: Paddle some distance to show you can keep you kayak straight and have

control

● Instructor Actions:

○ Give feedback on how the client may improve and what they are doing correctly

6. Debrief

● Purpose: Reflect on the session, reinforce key learnings, and provide feedback.

● Instructor Actions:

○ Gather the group and discuss what went well and areas for improvement.

○ Recap the key skills learned: preparedness, paddle control, self-management.

○ Encourage questions and provide individual feedback as needed.

Assessment and Feedback:

● Monitor each participant’s performance against the outcomes.

● Provide positive reinforcement and constructive feedback.

● Address any safety concerns immediately.

End of Lesson:

● Thank participants for their effort and participation.

● Provide information on next steps or additional resources for further skill development.