Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will understand how to read maps and globes, identify directions (north, south, east, west), and recognize the features of maps, including keys and legends. The student will also be able to describe the location of various places in relation to each other using directional terms.

Materials and Prep

• Paper and colored pencils or markers
• A blank map template (can be drawn on paper)
• A printed or drawn outline map of your state
• Access to a compass (optional, for fun learning about directions)

Before the lesson, make sure to discuss what a key or legend is and how it helps us read maps. Prepare the blank map template and have a basic outline of your state ready for reference.

Activities

• Create Your Own Map: The student will draw a simple map of their neighborhood, marking important places like their home, the post office, and the clothes store. They will include a key or legend to explain the symbols they use.

• Direction Relay: Set up a small obstacle course in your home or yard. The student will give directions to navigate through the course using north, south, east, and west (e.g., "Go east to the tree, then north to the fence").

• State Map Exploration: Using the outline map of your state, the student will color in the state and label the states to the north, south, east, and west. Discuss what they notice about the neighboring states.

Talking Points

• "Maps are like pictures of places from above. They help us find where things are!"
• "The key or legend on a map tells us what the symbols mean. It's like a secret code!"
• "When we say something is north of another place, we mean it’s up on the map. Can you find something that’s north of your house?"
• "Maps can show big areas, like a whole state, or small areas, like just your neighborhood. What do you think is easier to read?"
• "Remember, east is to the right when you look at a map. Can you point to where east is from here?"