Lesson: 7th grade Lesson 2: “Some Things You Need to Know to Read a Map”

Objective: TLW…describe directions using a map.
TLW…use relative location to orient themselves and the map.
TLW…use latitude and longitude to find absolute location on a map.
TLW…discuss the relationship between distance on a map and distance on
the ground (scale).
TLW…describe the difference between maps with “large scale” and
“small scale”.

Anticipatory Set: “Look up here at the bulletin board with the maps on it. Tell me about some of these maps.” Students respond. “Today we will be looking at things that we need to know to be able to read these maps.”

Materials:
Science journals
Globe
Map packet from the science kit 6c
Teacher’s Guide 6c

Procedure:
1) Have students turn in their journals to lesson 2.
2) Review the cardinal directions with students. Use the globe for reference.
3) Pass out map packets. Help students to orient themselves to the picture of a place. Use the shaded relief map.
Guided Practice:
4) Have students practice finding locations using directions by answering the questions in lesson 2. 5 minutes. Teacher observes students and assists with any questions.
5) Discuss relative location. Finish questions from lesson 2. 5 minutes. Teacher observes students and assists with any questions.
6) Review latitude and longitude with the topographic maps. Have students answer questions in journal. 5 minutes. Teacher observes students and assists with any questions.
7) Explain scale to students. Use the shaded relief map to answer these questions. 5 minutes. Teacher observes students and assists with any questions.
8) Define small and large scale. Have students locate objects on the topographic map. Then have them look at the road map and find the same buildings. Discuss the differences.
9) Discuss distance scale. Help students to answer questions on distance from the lesson worksheet.


Closure: “Talk to me about things you need to know to be able to read a map.” Students share.