Social+Studies+-+Schoolyard+Mapping+-+1-2


 * Lesson Plan Title:** Schoolyard Mapping (Kim Wilson / Lori McGarry)


 * Grade(s) Suggested:** 1-2


 * Content Areas: Social Studies **


 * Standards Addressed: PA 7.1.3.A. Geographic Tools and Their Uses **


 * General Objectives: Students will demonstrate understanding of the basic features of a map (title, symbols, key, and labels) by creating individual schoolyard maps that correctly include these features. **
 * Time Required: 1 class period, 30-40 minutes **

Whiteboard and magnets ** Copies of Schoolyard Map blackline (1 per student + 1 to hang on board) Pencils Crayons Mini whiteboards or clipboards to use for outdoor writing surfaces
 * Required Materials:

(5-10 minutes) Gather students near the blank map hanging on the whiteboard that contains no title, labels, or other markings). Ask for volunteers to share their ideas about what the map represents and then ask why it is difficult to tell for certain - what is missing? After telling students that it is a map of the PFE Schoolyard, inform them that they will get to make their own maps of the Schoolyard today, adding significant features and map elements (title, key with symbols, labels) to the blackline copies to make the maps more useful to readers. (10-15 minutes) Once outside, orient students to the blackline layout and hand out mini whiteboards / clipboards, pencils, and map copies. Students may work individually or in pairs to roughly sketch out schoolyard features, symbols, and labels on their maps. (10-15 minutes) Return to the classroom and invite students to fill in details on their maps, adding color, titles, and keys to define their symbols.
 * Procedure:**

If time allows, have students share their maps and explain the features and elements chosen. Refer to the original (empty) blackline on the board and have students share observations about why the new maps are more useful.
 * Closure:**

** Review completed maps to determine whether students have included appropriate items (i.e. permanent playground features) and have properly used titles, keys with symbols, and labels.
 * Assessment Based On Objectives: