Resource #V107111

Précis

Students will practise using compass directions and how to relate a map to a real environment. As a post-visit activity they have the opportunity to present and evaluate their recorded information on a comprehensive, annotated map.

Contextual Summary

This is a Geographical Skills resource focusing on simple mapping skills to be used while on board a Red Funnel Vehicle Ferry. It engages students with the topographical features of the UK?s South-West coastal region from Southampton Harbour via Southampton Water and the Solent to East Cowes on the Isle of Wight. It enables the students to develop their skills in reading maps, using a compass and relating maps to their environment; it promotes the use of directional language and geographical vocabulary in context and under field work conditions.

Curriculum Relevance

Geography → Geographical Skills and Fieldwork → Mapping Skills

Implementation

The resource will require children to re-cap and use simple compass points and basic skills in using and understanding the purpose of maps and compasses. This will include locating features on the way and fixing them on their base map as well as the opportunity to follow the course of the ferry and showing its route on their maps. Working in pairs, there is an opportunity to use key vocabulary and practise co-operation and team work skills.

Key Skills Practised

• Reading simple maps
• use of compass when locating own position & change of position on map
• identifying direction of movement/sailing
• use of directional language
• recognising features on map as features in landscape & vice versa

Learning Opportunities

Pre-Visit

Students will learn about compass points; using compasses, maps and will become familiar with key concepts and vocabulary in this context.

On Site

Students apply knowledge & understanding of compass simple points; use of compass under fieldwork conditions; using simple maps of new location; use of locational & directional language; description of features & routes on map; use of observational, communication and co-operational skills.

Post-Visit

Re-inforce learning by transferring the information collected on the field trip onto individual new blank base maps by annotating and labelling them with features, compass points and the ferry?s route. ? Present, compare and evaluate individual maps.

Learning Outcomes

Students will demonstrate and develop their map & compass skills. They will demonstrate & develop use of directional and geographical key vocabulary. Students will also develop geographical knowledge and understanding. They will practise co-operation skills . They will develop presentation skills (post-visit map).