World Map - Where Does Your Team Play?
The World Cup happens in a different country every four years. Mapping where teams come from grows global awareness and geography skills tied to real human stories.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Football Around the World
- Learning area: Sciences
- Level: EYFS 3-4, Reception
Objectives
- Locate a chosen country on a world map
- Recognise continents as large land areas
- Talk about distances and travel between countries
Materials
- Large floor or wall world map
- Sticky dots or small flag pins
- Photos of famous World Cup stadiums
Instructions
Roll out a large world map on the carpet. Sit children in a horseshoe so all can see. Show the photo of a famous stadium (Maracana in Brazil, Wembley in England, Lusail in Qatar) and ask 'Where in the world is this?'. Help locate Brazil on the map. Each child collects a sticker with their chosen country's flag and takes a turn placing it on the country on the map. As they place it, the group claps. Once every team has a pin, talk about which countries are far away, which share a continent, and which would need a long aeroplane ride to visit. Trace with a finger: 'From our school to Argentina is a very long way - over the ocean!'
Educator tip
A vinyl floor map (or one drawn with chalk on the playground) lets children physically walk between countries, which deepens spatial understanding.
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. Observe accurate placement of the flag and use of words like 'far', 'near', 'ocean', 'continent'.