World Mapping Activity
Level 1 builds foundational geography and cultural awareness. 'World Mapping Activity' reinforces identity and belonging.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Around the World
- Learning area: Geography
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Identify country on map
- Follow 2–3 steps
- Recognise flag/colours
- Participate in discussion
Instructions
Materials
- One large floor map or rug featuring a simplified world map.
- Five small plush globe toys or soft balls.
- Laminated photos of diverse children from different continents.
- Blue painter tape for marking boundaries.
- A basket for sorting materials.
Learning Objectives
- Identify that the world is made of land and water.
- Recognise that people live in different places across the globe.
- Practise spatial awareness by moving to specific locations on the map.
- Develop listening skills by following simple directional instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Clear a space in the centre of the room and lay out the large world map rug.
2. Gather the children in a circle around the map to introduce the concept that we live on a big planet called Earth.
3. Point to the blue sections on the map and explain that these represent water, while the colorful sections represent land where people live.
4. Invite children to touch the map gently to feel the difference between the land and water areas.
5. Place the laminated photos of children on different continents and ask the students to help find where each child might live.
6. Give each child a plush globe and ask them to walk carefully to a specific continent you name.
7. Encourage children to place their plush globe on the land area of their assigned continent.
8. Lead a brief discussion about how far away these places are from each other.
9. Allow children to move freely around the map to explore the different regions at their own pace.
10. Conclude by having the children help gather the photos and globes to store in the basket.
Educator Tip
If children struggle with the concept of a map, focus on the distinction between land and water using sensory play. You can extend this activity by adding small animal figurines and asking children to place them in their natural habitats on the map.
Assessment
- Observe if the child can distinguish between land and water areas when prompted.
- Note if the child can follow simple directions to move to a specific area on the map.
- Record whether the child participates in the discussion about people living in different places.
Assessment
Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Checklist: participation, correct identification, completion of task.