Social Studies Three: Map Fun

Learning Outcomes

Students will be expected to:

1. Use map symbols and legends and recognize that they represent real phenomena.
2. Relate maps to pictures.
3. Understand the advantages of maps.
4. Realize that some symbols, e.g. , rivers are standardized.

Activity

Following a discussion of maps and map symbols have children create a chart of map symbols. They can use old magazines to find pictures to represent symbols or they might draw the pictures themselves.

When the chart is finished have the children make a map of an imaginary town. This can be a partner activity. When the groups finish have them share their maps with the class. Display finished products in the class.

These maps can be used at a later date to review the cardinal directions. Children can pretend to bury a treasure in their imaginary town and have others find it, e.g., go to the left of the cemetery.

Assessment Tips

Circulate around the classroom as the students complete their maps. Note observations on the level of cooperation among partners, their understanding of maps, etc.