Describes a study which examined how to improve the readability of maps for upper elementary and middle school students. Data were gathered through interviews with 96 students who were asked a series of questions requiring the interpretation of one of four experimental maps. (AM)

A social studies class for gifted and talented students, grades 4-6, was spiced up by a unit on worldwide maps. A summary of the program is presented. (KC)

In a study of 2,791 elementary students (grades four-six) successful location of 10 countries on a map varied significantly with socioeconomic status (SES), gender, grade level, and mobility of students. Improvement of scores was linked with both high SES and higher grade levels. (IAH)

This is a set consisting of primer and workbook which provides an introduction to basic geographic concepts and principles for the upper intermediate grade child. Its objectives are to assist the student in understanding the order and logic of his physical environment and its interaction with human society. There are opportunities for…

Presents five lessons in a unit designed to teach about land and water forms on relief maps. These lessons rely on teacher instruction, small-group or whole class interaction, and directed and independent practice. Includes four worksheet examples. (Author/AEM)

A sample lesson based on teaching students to interpret geographical factors in relation to people's lives." (Author/SP)

Describes an innovative program involving sixth grade students in all aspects of archaeology, including an archaeological dig. Individual units on weather, geology, the metric system, and map reading are pursued. Specific archaeological techniques such as compiling site and field records, cataloging, and surveying are studied. (RM)

Advocates the use of infrared satellite maps for geography and social studies instruction above third grade. Teaching ideas with Landsat maps are listed and the costs and ordering sources of the maps provided. (SJL)

Sixth graders at Kamehameha Elementary School ascended a high mountain peak, successfully orienting themselves for over 5 miles using topographical maps and compasses and the knowledge, skills, and attitudes acquired at school. The article describes the program, noting the knowledge and tools students used to accomplish their goal. (SM)

Presents ideas for teaching middle school students how to make and use contour maps. Includes a lesson plan in which students make and read such a map. Provides details on the purpose, motivation, development, and conclusion of the lesson as well as the materials required. Identifies points students should recall as they work with the maps. (SG)

Provides a lesson plan designed to increase student map skills. Objectives are to (1) trace a route on a street map; (2) use symbols for locating skills; and (3) employ mileage scales to determine distance. Includes the procedures and an answer key. (RW)

One skill that elementary students need to acquire is the ability to analyze spatially distributed data. In this activity students are asked to complete the following tasks: (1) plot a set of data (related to "mud-sharks"--an imaginary fish) on a map of the state of Alabama, (2) identify trends in the data, (3) make graphs using the data…

This is a set consisting of primer and workbook which provides an introduction to basic geographic concepts and principles for the intermediate grade child. Its objectives are to help the student understand the order and logic of his physical environment and its interaction with human society. Opportunities are provided to view objects and their…

Simple but innovative strategies that fourth-grade California teachers can use for building student knowledge of California geography while reinforcing map skills throughout a typical fourth-grade state studies curriculum are presented. (RM)

Presents an activity designed to introduce middle through high school students to the atlas. To be used specifically with GOODE'S WORLD ATLAS (17th edition), students complete questions that enable them to systematically work their way through the atlas. Includes activity objectives, key terms, and a 52-part atlas exercise. (GEA)