Map Reading and Navigation

Maps are geographic literacy. Planning a route, then walking it, is the control — arrival or getting lost. Indirect aim: geography, preparation for travel, spatial reasoning.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Practical Life — Elementary
• Level: Ages 7-9

Objectives

• Read a street map and identify key features
• Plan a walking route between two points
• Use compass and cardinal directions
• Navigate an unfamiliar place

Materials

• Street map of local area
• Compass
• Route planning template
• Real navigation challenge

Instructions

1. Study a street map; identify legend (streets, parks, water). 2. Locate home or school. 3. Plan route to a landmark (library, park). 4. Identify turns and distance. 5. Use compass: face north, orient map. 6. Walk the planned route. 7. Note any mistakes or discoveries. 8. Plan a return route.

Educator tip

Paper maps build spatial reasoning GPS can't. Start with paper before apps.

Assessment

Observe route accuracy, compass use, and navigation success.

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• Unrolling and Rolling a Work Mat
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