I can't help but giggle a bit as I hear the oohs and aaahs of the children when a map is shown to the class. Such fun teaching first grade!
So, I'm always on the lookout for map books and activities that first graders can grasp and appreciate. Each year we read Me on the Map by Joan Sweeney. It's a story in our Houghton Mifflin reading program.
Maps are explained in story form thru the eyes of a child in each of these books. Kids get into the stories. Who could resist the antics of the dog, Penny?
I used to borrow My Map Book by Sara Fanelli for many years from a teacher friend (Thank you, Ann!). But, it's so exceptional, I had to purchase my very own hardcover copy.
I just love this book! If you haven't read it, you'll have to get a copy. It's one of those books you end up reading over and over again to your class. It shows a child's creativity at its best. It's a book about all the maps a girl has drawn, including a map of her tummy (the kids' favorite) and a map of her heart (my favorite). Of course, the kids ask to make their own maps after reading this book. Here are some the children completed.
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What a fun way to show that there are different kinds of maps, and that maps are used for different purposes. It's an opportunity to integrate geography and art and see those creative minds at work.
Hi, Mona!
ReplyDeleteI'm a new follower, led here by your comment on the TPT forum. (By the way, you will LOVE the forum - so many friendly, generous, and caring people!) I like your blog design and first posts! Love what you said about 1st graders and maps ... their eyes are like saucers, and you get to hear those awestruck "wowwww"s ! By the way, did you know that Loreen Leedy, who wrote Mapping Penny's World, is also a seller on TPT? You'll see her in the forum quite often!
Much good luck to you in these new and very fun ventures!
Linda
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