Where are we? And how do we learn our way around?

Katherine Swann

Maps are the gateway to locations near and far. In this unit, Kindergarten students will explore how maps work, how to draw a map, and the importance of maps throughout their lives. The unit will start with students drawing maps of familiar locations such as their classroom, home, or school. With teacher assistance, students will use ArcGIS Online and Google Earth to create maps that incorporate the data and analyze what the data shows us. Students will use journaling to keep the important information together as well as a vocabulary section for the new terms they will learn. Students utilize technology to access additional maps and resources for the unit. Activities include cooperative learning groups, whole class activities, and creating maps of different geographic locations.