Unit of Competency Mapping – Information for Teachers/Assessors – Information for Learners

SISOCLN409A Mapping and Delivery Guide
Instruct top rope climbs on natural surfaces

Version 1.0
Issue Date: May 2024


Qualification -
Unit of Competency SISOCLN409A - Instruct top rope climbs on natural surfaces
Description This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to instruct top rope climbing on natural surfaces. This unit focuses on planning, instructing and evaluating an instructional climbing session to enable participants to achieve the skills and knowledge required to participate independently in routine top-rope climbing on natural surfaces. This includes establishing anchors using fixed or natural anchors.No licensing, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of endorsement.
Employability Skills This unit contains employability skills.
Learning Outcomes and Application This unit applies to those working as climbing instructors in a range of top rope natural conditions.This unit may also apply to leaders working for outdoor education or adventure providers; volunteer groups; not-for-profit organisations or government agencies.
Duration and Setting X weeks, nominally xx hours, delivered in a classroom/online/blended learning setting.
Prerequisites/co-requisites Nil
Competency Field Climbing-natural surface
Development and validation strategy and guide for assessors and learners Student Learning Resources Handouts
Activities 		Slides
PPT 		Assessment 1 Assessment 2 Assessment 3 Assessment 4
Elements of Competency Performance Criteria              
Element: Plan a climbing session.
  • Establish participant's needs and characteristics.
  • Assess participant's current climbing knowledge in order to determine the session's aims and objectives.
  • Determine an appropriate instructional plan according to participant's needs and characteristics.
  • Develop a climbing plan according to participant's needs and characteristics, relevant legislation and organisational policies and procedures.
  • Identify potential hazards associated with climbing on restricted natural surfaces and minimise risks, according to organisational policies and procedures.
  • Access relevant sources to interpret detailed weather and environmental information and determine contingency plans.
       
Element: Select and organise equipment and resources.
  • Select and access equipment and resources according to contextual issues and organisational policies and procedures, and check serviceability.
  • Check equipment for safety and suitability, according to manufacturer's recommendations, and adjust and fit to ensure personal comfort.
  • Check contents of first aid and repair kits to ensure suitability to the location and activity.
       
Element: Brief participants.
  • Communicate instructions and relevant information about the climbing session in a manner appropriate to the participants.
  • Encourage participants to seek clarification, information and feedback as required during the session.
  • Establish a suitable communication system for participants to use while climbing and belaying.
  • Inform participants of known and anticipated hazards, safety checks and appropriate behaviour.
  • Check and confirm participants are properly equipped for the session.
       
Element: Instruct a top rope climbing session.
  • Conduct introductory activities for participants to reduce the risk of injury.
  • Monitor individual participant's performance during climbing session.
  • Provide positive encouragement and or feedback to each participant throughout session and encourage feedback and questioning.
  • Apply clear and accurate instructional techniques to impart activity specific knowledge, top rope climbing skills and safety and rescue procedures.
  • Observe participants during climbing and belaying and adjust or refine individual and or group technique as required.
  • Inform participants of opportunities to further develop their climbing skills and knowledge.
       
Element: Complete post session responsibilities.
  • Retrieve, inspect, repair and store equipment according to organisational policies and procedures.
  • Provide opportunities for participants to identify their personal progress and satisfaction with the session, and give feedback as required.
  • Evaluate relevant aspects of climbing session, and determine the level of learning achieved.
  • Identify potential areas of improvement for future climbing instructional sessions.
       


Evidence Required

List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the following is essential:

plans and delivers precise relevant information, explanations and demonstrations for top rope climbing session to ensure activities are conducted safely according to participant's needs and characteristics

observes and monitors the progress of participants, provides constructive feedback and intervention and modifies instructional techniques and or activities to improve climbing performance

encourages and responds to feedback from participants and evaluates and reflects on own instruction performance to identify strengths, weaknesses and areas that need improvement.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure instruction of climbing activities, using a variety of instructional techniques that reflect the needs and characteristics of a range of participants to demonstrate competency and consistency of performance.

Assessment must also ensure access to:

resources and information regarding participants and location to accurately plan, instruct and document climbing sessions for a variety of participants

instructional tools such as videos, DVDs, televisions, whiteboards, books, magazines, handouts and the internet

a top rope natural climbing site with clearly defined operating procedures, suitable for the conduct of instructional sessions

a group of participants to take part in the climbing session

equipment such as harnesses, helmets, belay devices, ropes, karabiners, chalk, protection, climbing shoes, food and water, and safety and first aid equipment.

Method of assessment

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

oral or written questioning to assess knowledge of relevant legislation and organisational policies and procedures to enable safe conduct of all climbing activities during the session

observation of safe climbing instruction, monitoring and adjustment according to participant's needs and characteristics

review of climbing session plans

third-party reports from a supervisor detailing performance.

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, for example:

SISOVTR301A Perform vertical rescues

SISOCLN303A Establish belays for climbing on natural surfaces.

Guidance information for assessment

Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assignment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)

Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Required skills

communication skills to:

consult with participants to plan a climbing session that meets their needs

convey information about the safety aspects of the session

interact with participants to create a safe and positive climbing environment

problem-solving skills to:

plan a suitable climbing session according to participant's needs and characteristics

address participant difficulties in developing climbing techniques

anticipate and respond appropriately to non-routine situations

planning and organising skills to:

source, allocate and coordinate resources, equipment and a restricted natural pitch suitable for the participants

monitor and evaluate progress

organise participants into manageable groups for climbing and belaying

language, literacy and numeracy skills to:

produce climbing and instructional plans for the climbing session

perform basic calculations to determine equipment needs based on height of pitch

complete post session participant and self evaluations

apply for permission or permits to use a restricted natural climbing site to instruct a group

instructional techniques to suit a range of participant's needs and characteristics

efficient and effective personal climbing skills to demonstrate and explain climbing and belaying techniques to participants

first aid and emergency response skills appropriate to the location to enable initial response and or rescue in emergencies whilst instructing climbing on natural surfaces.

Required knowledge

relevant legislation and organisational policies and procedures to enable safe conduct of climbing session

information about local site to assist in the planning process and enable management of potential climbing hazards, and any special restrictions applying to the site

equipment types, characteristics and technology used for climbing on restricted natural surfaces, the advantages and disadvantages of the range of equipment, and factors affecting appropriate selection of equipment

clothing and footwear requirements for climbing activities to ensure comfort and safety

care and maintenance of climbing equipment to ensure prolonged life span and safety requirements

instruction techniques and theories applicable to a range of ages and learning abilities

climbing techniques and common communication methods and calls used between climbers and belayers to reduce risk during restricted climbing on natural surfaces

belay systems, devices, knots and anchors appropriate for climbing on top rope natural sites

technical climbing knowledge, such as techniques and procedures to suit the features of the surface

weather and environmental information to ascertain possible conditions and their affect on the session

hazards that may be experienced in a natural climbing environment

emergency procedures, potential hazards and obstacles relevant to the location to ensure safety of self and others.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Participant's needs and characteristics may include:

age

fitness level and physical capabilities

climbing skills and knowledge

injuries and illnesses.

Session's aims and objectives may include:

developing climbing on natural surface skills

education

development

therapy

fitness targets

recreation.

Instructional plan may include:

top rope climbing activities and drills

duration of activities and drills.

Climbing plan may include:

session's aims and objectives

date, time and duration

location or site

instructor and participant ratios

resources and equipment

weather details

participant information:

safety requirements

risk management plan

relevant legislation and organisational policies and procedures.

rescue equipment

rescue and evacuation plan.

Relevant legislation may include:

occupational health and safety

permits or permission for access

environmental regulations.

Organisational policies and procedures may include:

risk management procedures

occupational health and safety

time and budget constraints

use and maintenance of equipment

communication protocols

confidentiality of participant information

instructor and participant ratios

code of ethics.

Hazards may include:

temperature extremes

slippery or unstable terrain

dangerous animals and insects

stinging trees and nettles

dense vegetation

group management hazards.

Natural surfaces may include:

boulders

cliffs.

Risks may include:

hypothermia

heat exhaustion

injuries

exhaustion

lost party or party member

equipment failure.

Relevant sources may include:

Bureau of Meteorology

media

land managers or agencies

local knowledge.

Weather and environmental information may include:

satellite images

daily and weekly forecasts

maximum and minimum temperatures

weather warnings

event warnings

river levels

synoptic charts

high and low tide predictions.

Contingency plans may include:

poor communication conditions

injuries

escape or retreat options

off route possibilities.

Equipment may include:

climbing equipment

safety equipment

rescue equipment.

Resources may include:

food and water

teaching aids.

Contextual issues may include:

weather conditions, including times

season

transport

location

trip distance and duration

group objectives

group size.

Relevant information may include:

equipment requirements, selection and use

safety procedures

risk prevention

possible hazards

risk management

lead climbing and belaying techniques

communication

objectives

rules and codes

responsible and safe behaviour.

Feedback may include:

information on participant progress

any improvements needed

verbal

written

visual.

Communication system may include:

calls

radio

hand signals

whistles.

Safety checks may include:

A - anchors - secure and suitable to application

B - buckles - locked as per manufacturers recommendations

C - connectors - locked, secured and orientated

D - devices - threaded correctly and secured

E - everything else including end of rope knots, friction hitches, belayer ready, helmet chin strap, clothing, jewellery and hair secured

F - friend - cross check.

Participant's performance may include:

use of appropriate communication system

top rope climbing technique

belaying technique

attitude and behaviour

negotiation of hazards

use of equipment.

Instructional techniques may include:

sequence of instruction:

simple to complex

part to whole

chronological

known to unknown

D.E.D.I.C.T:

demonstrate

explain

demonstrate

instruct

critique

test

E.D.I.C.T:

explain

demonstrate

instruct

critique

test

I.D.E.A:

introduce

demonstrate

explain

apply

Activity specific knowledge may include:

relevant legislation

organisational policies and procedures

establishment of anchors and ropes

factors to consider when planning a climb

minimal impact practices

risk and hazard management

equipment selection, use and maintenance

communication systems used in climbing.

Top rope climbing skills may include:

top rope belaying techniques

establishment of ropes for top rope climbing

use and knowledge of different climbing techniques

knots appropriate to top rope climbing

rescue procedures relevant to top rope climbing

communication between climber and belayer

negotiation of hazards and ensure safety of self and group

use and maintenance of equipment.

Safety and rescue procedures may include:

emergency response procedures

group management in emergency situations

relevant legislation

organisational policies and procedures

emergency response equipment

understanding of safety practices.

Opportunities may include:

locations suitable to skill level

range of equipment and clothing available

climbing clubs or groups in the local area.

Relevant aspects may include:

objectives

planning process

activity site

weather

equipment selection

clothing selection

food selection

instructional content

instructional technique

assessment technique

group feedback

directing techniques

rescue techniques employed.

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Establish participant's needs and characteristics. 
Assess participant's current climbing knowledge in order to determine the session's aims and objectives. 
Determine an appropriate instructional plan according to participant's needs and characteristics. 
Develop a climbing plan according to participant's needs and characteristics, relevant legislation and organisational policies and procedures. 
Identify potential hazards associated with climbing on restricted natural surfaces and minimise risks, according to organisational policies and procedures. 
Access relevant sources to interpret detailed weather and environmental information and determine contingency plans. 
Select and access equipment and resources according to contextual issues and organisational policies and procedures, and check serviceability. 
Check equipment for safety and suitability, according to manufacturer's recommendations, and adjust and fit to ensure personal comfort. 
Check contents of first aid and repair kits to ensure suitability to the location and activity. 
Communicate instructions and relevant information about the climbing session in a manner appropriate to the participants. 
Encourage participants to seek clarification, information and feedback as required during the session. 
Establish a suitable communication system for participants to use while climbing and belaying. 
Inform participants of known and anticipated hazards, safety checks and appropriate behaviour. 
Check and confirm participants are properly equipped for the session. 
Conduct introductory activities for participants to reduce the risk of injury. 
Monitor individual participant's performance during climbing session. 
Provide positive encouragement and or feedback to each participant throughout session and encourage feedback and questioning. 
Apply clear and accurate instructional techniques to impart activity specific knowledge, top rope climbing skills and safety and rescue procedures. 
Observe participants during climbing and belaying and adjust or refine individual and or group technique as required. 
Inform participants of opportunities to further develop their climbing skills and knowledge. 
Retrieve, inspect, repair and store equipment according to organisational policies and procedures. 
Provide opportunities for participants to identify their personal progress and satisfaction with the session, and give feedback as required. 
Evaluate relevant aspects of climbing session, and determine the level of learning achieved. 
Identify potential areas of improvement for future climbing instructional sessions. 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

SISOCLN409A - Instruct top rope climbs on natural surfaces
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Assessment Record Sheet

SISOCLN409A - Instruct top rope climbs on natural surfaces

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: