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Past Themes - Using Maps
Now that every year 7 student has received an Ordnance Survey ExplorerTM map, the next step is to put them to good use in the classroom.
Activities can be built around the four main functions of maps: - Locating
- Route-displaying
- Storing and displaying information
- Supporting decision making and problem solving
Map interpretation: some general principles - Think about matching the type of map you use to your purpose and to the abilities of the learners
- Start with maps that learners are able to relate to their own experiences, i.e. styles of map and maps of places they are familiar with, for example, those used in the media, public transport
- Try to develop map skills in context and not in isolation, i.e. through using maps meaningfully rather than as a stand-alone activity.
Map making
Having their own maps may have stimulated an interest in cartography, and giving them an opportunity to make their own maps is a fantastic opportunity to get them to explore their local area in a different way. Either you as the teacher or the students themselves can create simpler base maps from their OS maps, on which to add their own information both in the classroom and, more powerfully, out in the field.
Learn about representation
By making a map, students have to consider what they want to show and how they can convey the information to the audience.
Develop ICT skills
Students can produce professional looking maps using simple ICT packages such as presentation, computer-aided design and drawing packages and internet geographical information systems which can be an engaging and rewarding experience.
Alternative mapping - mapping what is important to us!
Mapping projects that involve both the school and wider community in partnership are very powerful vehicles for delivering Education for Sustainable Development and Citizenship. In addition, community mapping projects are excellent for stimulating because they encourage: - community collaboration and community building
- a closer connection between people and their home locality
- thinking about what are the important features (good and bad) of the home locality
- community action.
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