Lesson Topic: Mapping Grade Level: 2nd Grade

Prior Lesson Reflection: We have been discussing a little bit about where different things are located in
the classroom. Students know their directions and are practicing using symbols. Now we are going to
implement some of those key concepts into building our own maps. The main reason for doing this
activity is for students to learn how to create and read maps. I think this lesson should be separate
from other lessons. Although some prior knowledge about the lesson has been provided, the lesson
itself should still stand alone.

Alignment & Rationale:

Lesson Goal(s) & Objectives Standards Alignment

Students will create their own Standard #2 on National Geography Standards
maps.
Students will be able to read Standard #1 on National Geography Standards
maps.
Students will be able to list the Standard #1 on National Geography Standards
four essential elements of a
map.
Students will present their maps Standard #1 on National Geography Standards
to the class.

Learning Objectives: Students will be expected to create a map of their favorite place which will
include the four essential elements for a map. Students will be responsible for presenting their map to
the class. At the end of the lesson students will be asked to list the four essential elements of a map.

Materials Needed: All students will be given a copy of the mapping assignment page below which
explains maps and the activity. They will each be provided with a blank piece of paper and coloring
essentials. Also below is the example I will provide for students at the beginning of the class.
The Lesson Plan

Introduction (10 mintues)

Begin the lesson with the questions How many students have ever seen a map before? What
kind of maps have you seen?
Then I will share with them the map I made and explain the different essential elements on
the map.
Allow time for any questions students might have on the map I created or how you would
create a map.
Brainstorm as a class some different maps the students could make.

The Lesson (30 mintues)

The activity will then start with each student deciding on a place they would like to map. I will
at this time also be distributing the mapping assignment paper.
When the students have decided on a place they will come a share it with me and I will
provide them with a blank paper to begin their map.
Students will be given 20 min. to complete their maps.
Then students will be asked to present their map to the class. I will ask them a few questions
about their map and other students are welcomed to ask questions respectfully.
The students finished project will be a map, with hopes that they understand better how to
create and read a map.

Closure

The lesson will then end with me reviewing the information that the students received today.
Also I will tell the students to keep their eyes open to all the different places you will find
maps.
I will collect the students maps they created in the mapping activity for assessing.