Suggested Lesson Plan
Objectives
The child will be enabled to:
- develop an understanding of and use the map conventions of grid references and scale
- construct some simple maps of natural and human features in the local environment.
Resources
- Computer(s)
- Pieces of paper or jotters to jot down ideas
- Measuring tape (5m or 10m length)
- Geography copies or sheets of paper for drawing maps
Method
Introduction
- Give the children a piece of paper or ask them to get out their jotters.
- Give them thirty seconds to write down as many meanings for the word "Scale" as they can (i.e. weighing scales, singing a scale, skin of a fish…).
- Collect answers.
Development
- Explain that the children are going to learn more about the type of scale that tells you about the size of things on a map.
- Children do activities 1 and 2 on the computer and read instructions for some of the optional activities.
- Work through some examples with them to ensure they understand how to reduce measurements to get them to fit on the page.
e.g.
- The room is 10m x 8 m
- The woodland is 1000m x 900m
- The pool is 50m x 20m
- The hall is 20m x 30 m
Application
Help the children to do one of the practical activities suggested on the website, choosing one that matches their ability level and experience of mapping. The children may work individually or in groups when drawing out the maps.
Conclusion
Children show their maps to the class and explain the scale, colours and symbols used.