Map activities are a great way to teach a variety of map skills. They’re easy to implement, and many of them can be done without a lot of prep. Students don’t even have to read a book! This collection includes more than a hundred different map activities that will be sure to pique interest and engage students.
Whether you’re using a map to teach geography or to introduce students to a new social studies unit, there are a few key elements you need to know. First, students need to know how to read a map. Then, they need to understand how to make spatial decisions based on their knowledge of the map’s elements. Once they are familiar with the basic concepts, they can create their own maps and learn more about their country or city.
If you’re working with a younger student, you can teach them how to use a compass. You can do this in the classroom or outdoors. In addition, you can explain the importance of knowing the The Activity Map map grid and how to differentiate between countries, cities, and continents.
Another type of map activity is a large interactive build-a-map. These are customizable, so your students can work in small groups. Your students will then have the chance to add details to their maps, including roads, landmarks, and symbols. Depending on how old your students are, you can choose to use a pen and paper or a computer.
One of the most popular types of map skills activities is the map puzzle of the world. Your students will be challenged to figure out the location of Panama by filling in the blanks with facts. After finishing, they’ll be able to show their work to other students.
Another type of map skill activity is an art project. Kids can draw maps of places they’ve visited or the route they take in their daily lives. Additionally, they can include arrows to show where items are located on the map. Finally, kids can use symbols to mark buildings and churches.
A map activity for a social studies unit can be as simple as a coloring page. Or, it can be a complicated art project. Adding specific elements to the map will help your students understand spatial thinking concepts.
Another map skill activity is to create an anchor chart. Anchor charts are a visual way to summarize reading, teach social studies content, and reinforce student learning. Teachers can also use them to teach vocabulary and reading comprehension.
If you’re looking for a complete package of map activity printables, try the Marvelous Maps Project. This free resource includes instructional pages, grading sheet, practice sheets, and a downloadable map quiz. It is perfect for summer camp, scouts, and nature activities. Alternatively, you can print out the printables and save them to your favorite printable board on Pinterest.
As you explore map activities for kids, keep in mind that you’ll need to be there to monitor them. Even though they are not difficult to follow, it’s a good idea to have an adult help.