Kindergarten Capers: Me (and Others) On the Map

Kindergartners listened to a book called Me On the Map and then tried their hands at creating some of their own. Using a supply of architectural paper , we sketched make-believe worlds complete with land masses, bodies of water, compass roses, and map keys or legions. The Kindergartners were eager to interject volcanoes, " "M"s, and hearts. I think the latter represented how much we loved this map making activity!

We also used some of our newly acquired map making skills for our Math lesson. We practiced using a "Map Key" to locate a missing dog. We found a missing dog bone in another Math lesson using directional cues-North, South, East, and West. Map grids and the letters and numbers used to label the grid were also discussed.

Earlier in the day we went outdoors to locate North, South, East, and West with the knowledge that Our main avenue runs East and West. We returned inside to draw maps of our classroom this time. we recorded our doors, "saving shelf", table, and shelving on our North, south east, and west walls.

Compass Rose

During our first Latin lesson on Wednesday, Madame displayed gorgeous maps of Ancient Rome and discussed the origin of the Latin language.

Kai brought in a map that he acquired on his recent travels. He proudly told of locations of various aquatic animals and other sea life.

Mrs. Carpenter, who frequently peruses the Internet, happened upon this idea that we just had to try. Using our scrap paper box and two very large pieces of paper, Kindergartners created group maps depicting neighborhoods, enchanted forests, housing structures, and unidentified creatures. This activity was a great opportunity for cooperation, creativity, and compromise. We revisited this map several times during the week and watched it evolve over time.

Niccolo, Mason and Folu laid primary roads.

Bodies of water were added next.

Lilith designs houses with walkways and window panes. Eleanor draws houses on winding paved streets.

Ava applied cellophane sheets colored with markers to add another dimensional layer.

"Speed Bumps"

Secondary roads with line demarcations were added. (Needs a turnabout I think.)

Olivia experiments with varying line techniques for architectural structures.

"This is the Sun!" exclaimed Lilith while demonstrating it's radiating effects.

Maia puts our playground on the map (literally) complete with our play structure and bird house tree.

Folu explains, " You go through the tunnel and down the bumpy road to the forest then through the snow storm past the bees and dragon to get to the treasure."