Students are introduced to map and globe skills. They use grids and are able to construct their own simple maps of familiar places. Students are able to define a map, globe, and symbol and use the direction words north, south, east,...

Fifth graders analyze the Mayan culture. In this Mayan culture lesson, 5th graders study the Mayan culture noting similarities and differences between the Mayan culture and their own. Students examine hieroglyphic writing and the Mayan...

Students relate the classical world to the modern world. In this map skills lesson, students turn a blank map into a colorful complete map by following step-by-step directions. This lesson allows students to connect our current geography...

Students discuss the origin of various maps focusing on the values behind them. Students also explore how human needs and geography influence community settlement patterns. Students extend learning by creating and mapping their own ideal...

Students interact with MapPoint tools to view maps of the past and the present in multiple ways. They participate in mini-lessons aimed at locating certain points of interest or famous routes taken in history.

Young scholars plan a family vacation to states that were among the original 13 colonies. The groups determine which state they visit, map their route, calculate the mileage, and determine how much money they spend on gasoline.

Students explore the country of Japan. In this international studies lesson plan, students utilize their geography skills to locate Japan on a map. Students explore some Japanese customs and communities. Students use descriptive...

Learners experiment with landform vocabulary by using their own hands and a bar of soap as media.

Third graders study maps. In this U.S. geography instructional activity, 3rd graders explore directions on a compass rose and use a map scale to determine distances between two points on a map. They listen to a lecture and use their own...

Students are able to list the essential elements of a thematic map, understand and use scale effectively to represent a geographic area, use research skills to develop a body of information, plan and draw an accurate thematic map based...

Trace Columbus' voyages by locating them on 21st Century maps.  Using a navigators instructional activity, 4th graders will examine the Age of Exploration and trace Columbus's routes accurately on laminated world maps using...

Students forecast future population growth of the U.S. Virgin Islands. In this U.S. Census lesson plan, students explain the factors that influence population density on the U.S. Virgin Islands, including geography and economic activity.

First graders discuss "Harold and the Purple Crayon" and his drawings. In this neighborhood geography lesson plan, 1st graders learn to detect and classify places on a map including their home. Students recognize their address as a...

Fourth graders examine the geographic features that define places and regions and answer questions about the state of California. They discuss the components of a map legend and answer worksheet questions using a map of California as a...

Third graders discover Ancient Rome through maps and worksheets.  In this world history lesson plan, 3rd graders locate Rome on a world map and identify the scope of the Roman Empire.  Students label an entire map of Italy...

Students solve time zone problems and chart travel around the world.  In this time zone activity, students learn about the history of time zones and view a time zone map.  Students use the time zone map to solve time zone...

Young scholars explore geographical elements. In this geographical elements instructional activity, students create a map showing the geographical elements in their area. Young scholars take pictures of these elements to glue to their...

First graders study cardinal directions on maps. In this geography lesson, 1st graders determine and show where North, South, East, and West are on various maps.

Fourth graders complete mathematical word problems. They study the relationships among distance, speed, and time; and measure travel distances. They measure distances using a piece of string and a ruler and practice converting several...

Students investigate several maps detailing Sir Francis Drake's voyages.  In this geography instructional activity, students practice reading maps and locating the precise locations of where Sir Francis Drake visited.  Students...

Middle schoolers practice using the map and compass to find a location. In this geography lesson series, students identify basic requirements needed when traveling in the wilderness. They plan a healthy menu for a backpacking trip.

Students construct a small city on a table in the classroom. Each student is given a lot to develop. They give directions from one location to another, and write letters with correct addresses to their classmates.

Fifth graders explore places visited by Lewis and Clark. In this geographical concepts instructional activity, 5th graders plot places on a map and put events in chronological order. Students find locations on a map using longitude and...

Learners explore geography by participating in a treasure hunt activity. In this Global Positioning System lesson plan, students define the terms latitude and longitude while utilizing an electronic GPS device. Learners view a PowerPoint...