Symbols on an OS map - Activity

The activity centred around symbols on an Ordnance Survey (OS) map encourages pupils to engage with geography by exploring various places of interest through map symbols. Pupils are urged to use an OS map of their local area, if available, to familiarise themselves with their immediate surroundings. The task involves identifying different symbols on the map and understanding what each represents. This not only allows students to learn about their environment but also offers an opportunity to compare their findings with an example provided or even with maps of other areas. Setting up a challenge with classmates can add a competitive element to the learning experience, encouraging further exploration and engagement with multiple maps.

Understanding map symbols is crucial for navigation, and the activity also includes an educational component on map scale. Pupils are taught the concept of scale, such as a 1:2500 scale, where 4 cm on the map corresponds to 1 kilometre in the real world. This knowledge is essential for accurately interpreting distances on a map. The exercise prompts students to consider how maps are valuable tools for orientation and to discuss the purpose of Ordnance Survey maps specifically. By learning what the various symbols denote, pupils can effectively use these maps to navigate and appreciate the detailed information that OS maps provide about the landscape.