Maps and Mapping (Kingfisher Young Knowledge)
#5 in Kingfisher young knowledge Series
on Goodreads (34)
What’s inside...
Maps and Mapping (Kingfisher Young Knowledge) by Deborah Chancellor is an educational book designed for young readers to explore the world of cartography. It introduces children to the basics of maps and how they are used to represent different places on Earth. The book covers a variety of map types, including physical, political, and thematic maps, and explains key concepts such as scale, symbols, and directions. It also delves into the history of map-making and the evolution of maps over time. Through engaging illustrations and simple explanations, the book aims to foster a child's understanding of geography and encourage an interest in navigation and the diverse landscapes of our planet.
Discussion points
What is your favorite map in the book and why?
If you could create a map of any place, real or imaginary, what would it look like?
How do maps help people in real life?
Can you think of a time when you used a map or directions to find something? How did it help you?
What new things did you learn about maps and mapping from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, take a moment to explore maps you have at home—perhaps from a board game or a travel guide—and discuss them.
As you read the book together, relate the content to familiar locations to make the abstract concept of maps more concrete and relatable for your child.
Encourage your child to draw their own map after reading the book. It could be a map of their room, neighborhood, or a fantastical treasure map.
Discuss the importance of colors, symbols, and scales mentioned in the book and how they help in reading the map accurately.
After reading, use online resources or apps with maps to further illustrate and explore what you have read in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Geography
Explanation: Maps and Mapping educates children on various types of maps and the purposes they serve, enhancing geographic knowledge.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by recognizing and understanding maps they encounter in daily life, such as in school, road trips, or while discussing places around the world.
Example Lesson: Importance of Directions
Explanation: The book teaches how to use maps to find directions and locate places, fostering navigational skills.
Real-World Application: This helps children navigate more independently in familiar or new environments, be it hiking or finding a room in school.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: Through exposure to maps from various parts of the world, children learn about different geographical regions and cultures.
Real-World Application: This knowledge encourages respect and curiosity for different cultures they learn about in school or meet in their community.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Maps and Mapping shows how maps are used to solve problems, such as planning a route or locating a geographical feature.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use logical reasoning to solve everyday problems, like figuring out the best route to a friend’s house or to a local park.
Example Lesson: Spatial Thinking
Explanation: The book helps children develop spatial thinking by understanding the layout of maps and spatial relationships.
Real-World Application: Enhanced spatial thinking aids children in activities like assembling puzzles, playing sports, or participating in arts and crafts.