Maps Can Tell Us Things
#2 in Let’s Read and Find Out Series
What’s inside...
The book is an educational resource that introduces young readers to the various types of maps and what information they can provide. It demonstrates how maps can show us where things are located, how to get from one place to another, and even share details about the history and characteristics of different locations.
Discussion points
What is your favorite map from the book and why?
How do maps help people find their way?
Can you think of a time when you used a map? What was it like?
What are some of the different symbols you saw on the maps in the book?
How do you think our world would be different if no one had maps?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, refer to specific maps shown in the book and ask your child to describe them in their own words.
Encourage your child to draw their own map of a familiar place, like their room or neighborhood, and discuss what symbols they would use.
Relate map usage to a family outing or a vacation, discussing how maps could be useful for planning or during the trip.
Use the book's illustrations to talk about various types of maps such as weather maps, world maps, or treasure maps, and their purposes.
After reading, engage your child in an interactive game of creating a treasure hunt with a simple map to find hidden objects around the house.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Geography
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and engaging text, 'Maps Can Tell Us Things' introduces young readers to various types of maps and their purposes, fostering geographic knowledge.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge in real life by recognizing maps in daily situations, such as navigating through a zoo or a park, and understanding their surroundings better.
Example Lesson: Importance of Direction
Explanation: The book teaches children how to use directions through maps, which is a fundamental skill in understanding how to navigate spaces.
Real-World Application: This skill helps children orient themselves in new environments, enhancing their ability to participate in family trips, school field trips, or simply exploring their neighborhood safely.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: Anne Giulieri’s narrative takes children on a journey around the world, showing them different landscapes and the cultures of the people who inhabit them, subtly teaching diversity and inclusion.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect different cultures and environments, making them more empathetic and informed global citizens.
Example Lesson: Analytical Thinking
Explanation: The book encourages children to analyze information presented on maps, such as symbols and scales, promoting critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: This analytical approach can be applied in academic settings like solving math problems or understanding science experiments, as well as in everyday life when making decisions based on information.
Example Lesson: Environmental Conservation
Explanation: Through different geographical areas depicted in the maps, children learn about various natural environments and the importance of conserving them.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to engage in environmentally friendly practices like recycling and conserving water, helping them develop habits that contribute to ecological sustainability.