Introductory techniques

To introduce pupils to maps and especially symbols on maps, start by creating a map-bingo game. Pupils are given an empty grid and, using a section of OS map, get them to choose symbols to draw into each section of their grid. A quicker alternative is to use the free resource from the Scouts as pre-made bingo cards: Map Symbol Bingo Cards and Sheets.

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The teacher calls out symbols, by holding up the symbol picture, pupils crossing them off until a line or full house is achieved. Extension: call out the symbol without showing the image, just a description.

Questions:

• Why do maps have symbols on them?
• How does the symbol key help us unlock the map?

Next pupils can think about scale. Using a scale of 1m = 100m or 1Km, on the playground, get pupils to mark out the distance of local – far places, on a 100m tape, they could use chalk to draw what is at that distance. For example, over a 100m tape measure pupils could scale out local landmarks.

Mapping technique

Mapping techniques are key at KS2 in geography to understand the world around us and our local space. This activity allows pupils to see the link between a 3D landscape and the 2D map it can be described as.

Location: within school grounds or local green space where there are a range of features e.g. trees, low walls, paths, edges of buildings, streams, small ponds etc.

Fieldwork set up: Teacher lays out two tape measures (from 10m² up to 100m²) across an area with visible features. On a board or pinned to a wall, have a large piece of paper with a corresponding grid.

Task:

• Pupils must find something interesting to stand next to or work as a group to show the edge of a boundary (e.g. a stream). Using coordinates as grid references, distances along the tape measures to work out scale, they then transfer the landscape feature to the paper grid map. An example can be seen to the right.
• Pupils must add something to the key to help interpret what they have drawn.
• Once every feature has been added they can add other features like North arrow or a scale.

Considerations:

• The teacher might want to add some ‘features’ to the landscape if there is not much of interest, this can be done with any items such as teddies, sports kit or other items.

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The Geographical Association (GA) has worked closely with the Field Studies Council (FSC) to develop these resources.