What is a map? - Lesson 1

The concept of a map is introduced to young learners through a series of engaging and interactive activities designed to help them understand their immediate environment and the importance of navigation. In the first activity, children are taken on a walk around the area adjacent to their school, where they are encouraged to observe and take note of road signs, street names, and house numbers. This practical exercise not only familiarizes them with their surroundings but also allows them to understand the necessity of such indicators in daily life. They are prompted to look out for other features like fire hydrants and lampposts, and to use estimation to gauge distances, incorporating directional language such as right, left, forwards, and backwards.

Further exploration into identifying places is done through examining photographs of nearby locations and matching them to real-life places, as well as using a school plan to recognise different rooms. While some children might find this challenging, it provides an opportunity to develop their observational skills. Language development is also a key part of the lesson, with the reading of 'Rosie's Walk' to concentrate on positional language within the narrative. Children are then given the chance to create their own journey scenarios, using positional language to direct peers and symbolising the journey for later replication. Extension of these concepts is achieved by incorporating literature such as 'The Gruffalo' or 'We're Going on a Bear Hunt', which introduces terms like 'beneath' and 'on top of', and by setting up trails for others to navigate. These activities are typically carried out in focused small groups of around six pupils, ensuring individual attention and a conducive learning environment.