Teaching Maps

Sample lesson plan incorporating UDL

Learning Outcome: Students will be able to explain and use basic elements of a map key to locate and describe various features. i.e. Cities, roads, geographical features, political boundaries, event markers, cardinal directions, and distance.

Activity 1: Map basics

Students will watch a brief video explaining the fundamental purpose and types of maps. After the video students will complete a "map of the map" worksheet, matching the elements of the map to the purpose and function they serve.

Activity 2: Making a map

Students will discuss why people need maps and using the text students will make a 3D map of the region as described by the text in small groups then compare it to an actual 3D topographical map of the region.

Activity 3: My world map

Students will use the computer to as precisely as possible make a map of the playground using distances measured by the class including all of the basic elements discussed in class and the video. 

Learning Resources:

How to Understand Map Features

http://www.ehow.co.uk/video_4957101_understand-map-features-navigate.html

Map Worksheets

http://edsitement.neh.gov/lesson-plan/mapping-past#sect-thelesson