Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: K to 2

Introduction

Map reading and map making are abstract concepts. Using age-appropriate methods, teachers may successfully introduce these concepts to young students. According to teacher and author David Sobel (1998), children should begin mapmaking the same way they begin drawing: with subjects that are emotionally important to them. Maps drawn by young children represent their experiences of beauty, secrecy, adventure, and refuge.

During Part A of the Activity, students will map the route from their home to school. This exercise gives students practice drawing a map. It also gives students the opportunity to process the often difficult transition from home to school, which can be exciting and anxiety-producing for young children. Making a map and talking about it allows students to share this experience. Teachers should capitalize on the excitement of discovery and exploration, which can be a strong motivator that is inherent in mapping.

During Part B of the Activity, students will follow a map and mark the locations of weeds on the map. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.

Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 3 to 5

Introduction

Maps are an excellent vehicle for connecting the real world to a child’s vivid, imaginary world. The Activity includes three parts: Desk Journey, Penny Journey, and Weed Journey. Each part involves maps that take children on journeys, and each part capitalizes on the sense of mystery, excitement, and discovery inherent to maps. Students will discover that they need to use the maps to find things. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.