Introduction to Maps and GlobesActivities & Teaching Strategies
Active learning works for this topic because maps and globes are spatial tools that students must handle, not just look at. Students need to physically interact with projections and symbols to grasp how they represent reality, which improves retention and spatial reasoning. When students compare distortions or sketch their own maps, they move from passive listeners to active constructors of geographic knowledge.
Learning Objectives
- 1Compare the advantages and disadvantages of globes versus flat maps for representing Australia.
- 2Explain how map projections simplify the 3D Earth onto a 2D surface, identifying common distortions.
- 3Analyze the historical development of cartography and its impact on European exploration.
- 4Identify key cartographic elements like symbols, scale, and compass rose on a given map.
- 5Critique the effectiveness of different map types for specific purposes, such as navigation or population distribution.
Want a complete lesson plan with these objectives? Generate a Mission →
Demonstration: Orange Peel Projection
Peel an orange carefully to keep the skin in one piece, then flatten it on paper to show shape distortions. Have students trace continents on the peel before flattening and compare to a world map. Discuss which regions distort most and why.
Prepare & details
Explain how maps simplify complex reality into usable data.
Facilitation Tip: During the orange peel projection, have students carefully peel the orange in one continuous strip to clearly see how the curved surface resists flattening.
Setup: Tables with large paper, or wall space
Materials: Concept cards or sticky notes, Large paper, Markers, Example concept map
Pairs Comparison: Globe vs Map
Provide pairs with a globe and matching flat world map. Students measure distances between Australian cities on both, note differences in Antarctica's size, and list pros and cons. Pairs share findings in a class chart.
Prepare & details
Differentiate between the advantages and disadvantages of globes versus flat maps.
Facilitation Tip: For the globe vs map pairs, give each pair a ruler to measure distances on both tools, reinforcing the difference between flat and spherical accuracy.
Setup: Tables with large paper, or wall space
Materials: Concept cards or sticky notes, Large paper, Markers, Example concept map
Small Groups: Historical Map Hunt
Groups receive images of old maps like Ptolemy's or Mercator's projections. They identify distortions, link to exploration impacts, such as Columbus's voyages, and create a timeline poster. Present to class.
Prepare & details
Analyze the historical evolution of cartography and its impact on exploration.
Facilitation Tip: In the historical map hunt, provide photocopies of maps from different centuries to avoid touching fragile originals while still allowing close examination.
Setup: Tables with large paper, or wall space
Materials: Concept cards or sticky notes, Large paper, Markers, Example concept map
Individual: My Map Sketch
Students sketch a simple map of their local suburb from memory or observation, add scale and legend, then compare to a globe or Google Earth view. Reflect on simplifications made.
Prepare & details
Explain how maps simplify complex reality into usable data.
Facilitation Tip: For the map sketch activity, circulate with colored pencils to guide students who struggle with symbol placement or scale.
Setup: Tables with large paper, or wall space
Materials: Concept cards or sticky notes, Large paper, Markers, Example concept map
Teaching This Topic
Teachers should begin with familiar objects, like oranges, to introduce the concept of projection before moving to abstract maps. Avoid starting with flat map examples, as this reinforces the misconception that maps show reality accurately. Use think-alouds to model how to question accuracy in maps, such as asking, 'If Australia looks wider here, what might that mean for its real shape?' Research shows that spatial reasoning improves when students physically manipulate objects and then discuss their observations in pairs or small groups.
What to Expect
Successful learning looks like students confidently explaining why maps distort reality while globes preserve proportions. They should use terms like scale, legend, and projection accurately in discussions. Students will also show they can choose the right tool—map or globe—based on purpose, such as planning a trip or comparing continent sizes.
These activities are a starting point. A full mission is the experience.
- Complete facilitation script with teacher dialogue
- Printable student materials, ready for class
- Differentiation strategies for every learner
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionDuring the Orange Peel Projection activity, watch for students who believe the torn peel accurately represents Earth's continents once flattened.
What to Teach Instead
Pause the activity when tears appear and ask students to compare the torn edges to a globe. Point out how areas like Africa or South America distort when flattened, then have students sketch what they see before and after peeling.
Common MisconceptionDuring the Pairs Comparison: Globe vs Map activity, watch for students who insist globes are always superior because they show 'the real Earth.'
What to Teach Instead
Provide a ruler and ask each pair to measure the distance between two cities on both tools. When the flat map shows distortion, guide them to discuss why a globe might be better for global accuracy but less useful for local planning.
Common MisconceptionDuring the Historical Map Hunt activity, watch for students who assume older maps are 'wrong' because they look different from modern ones.
What to Teach Instead
Have students list what each historical map shows accurately and what it distorts. Then ask them to compare it to a modern map, noting improvements in technology and accuracy over time.
Assessment Ideas
After the Orange Peel Projection activity, give each student an exit ticket with a simple world map and globe image. Ask them to circle one area on each that looks distorted and write one sentence explaining why the globe is more accurate for that area.
During the Pairs Comparison: Globe vs Map activity, circulate and listen as pairs discuss which tool they would use to plan a trip across Australia. Ask each pair to share one advantage of their chosen tool, noting whether they prioritize detail or global accuracy.
After the Historical Map Hunt activity, pose the question: 'How do symbols on historical maps compare to those on modern maps?' Facilitate a discussion where students point to specific examples from their handouts to justify their observations about accuracy and style.
Extensions & Scaffolding
- Challenge: Ask early finishers to create an infographic comparing two map projections, highlighting distortions in size or shape.
- Scaffolding: Provide pre-printed grid paper for students to trace their map sketches, ensuring proper scale before adding details.
- Deeper exploration: Invite students to research how GPS technology uses map projections today, connecting historical tools to modern applications.
Key Vocabulary
| Cartography | The science or practice of drawing maps. It involves the study and creation of maps, including their design and production. |
| Map Projection | A method of representing the three-dimensional surface of the Earth on a two-dimensional plane, which inevitably causes distortion. |
| Distortion | The alteration of the shape, size, distance, or direction of features when representing the curved surface of the Earth on a flat map. |
| Scale | The ratio between a distance on a map and the corresponding distance on the ground, indicating how much the real world has been reduced. |
| Legend/Key | An explanation of the symbols, colors, and patterns used on a map, helping users interpret the information presented. |
Suggested Methodologies
Planning templates for Geography
More in Mapping the World: Skills and Tools
Cartographic Conventions: BOLTS
Mastering the use of BOLTS (Border, Orientation, Legend, Title, Scale) as essential elements for interpreting and creating effective maps.
2 methodologies
Grid References and Location Systems
Learning to use alphanumeric and numerical grid references (e.g., Eastings and Northings) to precisely locate features on a map.
2 methodologies
Map Projections and Distortion
Understanding how different map projections distort our perception of world regions and the challenges of representing a sphere on a flat surface.
2 methodologies
Topographic Maps: Contours and Relief
Interpreting contour lines to understand elevation, slope, and landforms on topographic maps.
2 methodologies
Introduction to Digital Geographies
Using modern technology like Google Earth and online mapping tools to explore and visualize spatial information.
2 methodologies
Ready to teach Introduction to Maps and Globes?
Generate a full mission with everything you need
Generate a Mission