Lesson Plan: Map Reading
Subject: English
Grade: Year 9
Duration: 30 minutes
Topic: Map Reading
Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Understand the fundamental concepts of map reading.
- Identify and explain key map symbols and features.
- Use a map to navigate from one point to another.
- Develop descriptive language skills to explain directions and locations.
Materials Needed
- A2 sized printed maps of a local area (preferably with familiar landmarks)
- Highlighters
- Whiteboard and markers
- Projector (for any additional visual aids)
- Worksheets with map exercises
Lesson Outline
Introduction (5 minutes)
- Begin with a brief discussion about why map reading is an essential skill in everyday life.
- Ask students if they have ever used a map or GPS for navigation. Gather a few responses.
- Introduce the objectives of the lesson.
Direct Instruction (10 minutes)
- Map Elements:
- Define key terms such as scale, legend/key, compass rose, and grid reference.
- Discuss the importance of understanding these elements for effective map reading.
- Symbols and Features:
- Explain common symbols used in maps (e.g., roads, rivers, parks) using the printed maps.
- Highlight the map legend and clarify how to read it.
Guided Practice (10 minutes)
- Distribute A2 sized maps and highlighters to each student.
- Instruct students to:
- Identify and highlight various map symbols on their maps.
- Pair up and discuss the importance of each symbol they have highlighted.
Independent Practice (5 minutes)
- Hand out a worksheet with a map-reading exercise. The worksheet should include:
- Simple questions about the map (e.g., "Which symbol represents a hospital?")
- A task where students have to create a set of directions from one landmark to another.
Conclusion (2 minutes)
- Review key points discussed in the lesson.
- Invite a few students to share their directions and explain the reasoning behind their choices.
- Assign students to practice using an online map tool at home as an extension of this lesson.
Assessment
- Informal assessment through observation during guided and independent practice.
- Review the worksheets to assess understanding of map symbols and the ability to follow directions.
Differentiation
- Provide additional support to students who may struggle by pairing them with more confident peers.
- Challenge advanced students by asking them to create their own map using original symbols.
Home Learning
- Ask students to explore an online mapping service and note down three new features they discover that were not discussed in class.
Note
Ensure that all discussions are inclusive and that every student feels comfortable participating. Emphasise the relevance of map reading skills in various life scenarios, such as travel and navigation in new areas, while also linking it to English language use through descriptive tasks.