A seven-lesson unit was developed to improve school map knowledge and practical map skills in primary children. The unit activities can also be modified for kindergarten children. (Author/AM)

Describes a study which compared the effectiveness of two teaching methods--the lecture method and experiential learning aimed at improving college students' topographic map skills. Subjects were 76 University of Georgia undergraduate geography students. (AM)

Social Studies textbooks from grades 1-4 published by Macmillan (1985), Scott Foresman (1986), and Silver Burdett & Ginn (1988) were selected for review to assess the position given by these books to geographic place vocabulary. Each was evaluated on the basis of frequency and continuity of places named, the attention to stressing place name…

Presented is a model for teaching elementary students how to associate place names with their referents on a map. The model has six steps: motivate, demonstrate, mnemonic devices, practice, test, and review. Described is a sample lesson for teaching about western states. (RM)

Argues that effective citizenship requires geographic place knowledge. Recommends that primary students develop place vocabulary through memorization and map activities. Analyzes three social studies (grades 1-4) textbooks for attention to place vocabulary. Finds that none offers a systematic approach to place vocabulary acquisition. Introduces…

Presents results of a study of knowledge of place location among preservice and inservice teachers. Reports finding a better place vocabulary among inservice teachers and a relationship between correct responses and the proximity of the target state to the subject's home state. Concludes that university attendance did not affect results whereas…