Exploring Maps: A Journey of Discovery

Social Studies Grades 1st Grade 9:11 Video
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Lesson Description

Embark on a fun-filled adventure to learn about maps, cardinal directions, map keys, and how to create your very own map!

Video Resource

Maps for Kids | Learn how to read a map and other skills in this fun introduction to maps

Learn Bright

Duration: 9:11
Watch on YouTube

Key Concepts

  • What a map is and its purpose
  • Cardinal directions (North, South, East, West)
  • Map keys and symbols
  • Map Landmarks

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to define a map and identify its key components.
  • Students will be able to identify and use cardinal directions to locate places on a map.
  • Students will be able to create a simple map with a key and landmarks.

Educator Instructions

  • Introduction (5 mins)
    Begin by asking students what they know about maps. Show them different types of maps (e.g., road map, world map, treasure map). Explain that maps help us find places.
  • Video Viewing (7 mins)
    Play the 'Maps for Kids | Learn how to read a map and other skills in this fun introduction to maps' video by Learn Bright (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZaTK7B0doE). Pause at key points to discuss and clarify concepts.
  • Cardinal Directions Activity (10 mins)
    Teach students about cardinal directions using a compass rose or a simple directional chart. Have them point North, South, East, and West in the classroom. Play a game where you give directions (e.g., 'Walk two steps North').
  • Map Key Exploration (10 mins)
    Explain what a map key is and how it helps us understand symbols on a map. Show examples of different map symbols. Have students draw their own symbols and create a key for them.
  • Create Your Own Map (15 mins)
    Provide students with paper, crayons, and markers. Have them create a map of their classroom, home, or neighborhood. Encourage them to include landmarks and create a map key.
  • Wrap-up (3 mins)
    Review what the students learned, recap the main points of the video, and preview what the students will learn during the next lesson.

Interactive Exercises

  • Classroom Scavenger Hunt
    Create a simple map of the classroom with marked locations (e.g., bookshelf, desk). Have students use the map and key to find hidden objects.
  • Directional Dance
    Play music and call out cardinal directions. Students move in the direction called out (e.g., 'North!' - everyone takes a step forward).

Discussion Questions

  • What is a map?
  • Why do we use maps?
  • What are the four cardinal directions?
  • What does a map key tell us?

Skills Developed

  • Map reading skills
  • Spatial reasoning
  • Directional awareness
  • Critical thinking

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1:

What helps us find places?

Correct Answer: A map

Question 2:

Which way does North point?

Correct Answer: Up

Question 3:

What is a key on a map?

Correct Answer: A list of symbols

Question 4:

Which of these is a direction?

Correct Answer: East

Question 5:

What can you draw on your map?

Correct Answer: Landmarks

Question 6:

What does a map help you do?

Correct Answer: Find places

Question 7:

How many cardinal directions are there?

Correct Answer: 4

Question 8:

Which of these could be a symbol on the map key?

Correct Answer: a star

Question 9:

What do we call the important places on a map?

Correct Answer: Landmarks

Question 10:

What tool could help you find directions?

Correct Answer: Compass

Fill in the Blank Questions

Question 1:

A ______ helps us find places.

Correct Answer: map

Question 2:

The four main directions are called ______ directions.

Correct Answer: cardinal

Question 3:

The map ______ tells us what the symbols mean.

Correct Answer: key

Question 4:

______ is the opposite of South.

Correct Answer: North

Question 5:

You can draw your school on a ______.

Correct Answer: map

Question 6:

A ______ shows what is on Earth.

Correct Answer: map

Question 7:

We can use North, South, East, and West to give _________.

Correct Answer: directions

Question 8:

A map has many __________ like roads, rivers, or mountains.

Correct Answer: landmarks

Question 9:

East and West are on the ________ of North and South.

Correct Answer: sides

Question 10:

Maps help us find our _______.

Correct Answer: way

Educational Standards

SOC.1.1.2.1:Describe the difference between physical and political maps; construct basic maps of specific places. SOC.1.1.2.2:Identify cardinal directions and use them to identify specific locations on a map.

Teaching Materials

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