Inquiries Filed Under:

Paper Maps

About the inquiry

This 2016 Inquiry Challenge winner inquiry leads students through an investigation of electronic and paper maps as representations of the physical world. In examining the different ways in which the two mediums reflect place and positionality, students should consider the utility and relative value of different geographic representations. Through interaction with the formative performance tasks and featured sources, students build their knowledge and understanding so that they are able to develop an argument that answers the compelling question “Do We Still Need Paper Maps?”

Compelling Question

Do We Still Need Paper Maps?

Staging Question

Students watch a video in which a boy talks about a time he got lost and have a discussion about what they have done when they have gotten lost.

Supporting Question

How do maps help us find what we are looking for?

Formative Tasks

Explain how each map helps people find something they may be looking for.

Sources

Source A: Map of Zoo (example)<br /> Source B: My Map Book<br /> Source C: Google Maps or MapQuest

Supporting Question

How can we use maps to show others where things are?

Formative Tasks

Create an electronic and paper map of their home, classroom, school, or neighborhood.

Sources

Source A: The Cat in the Hat Can Map This & That<br /> Source B: National Geographic MapMaker Tool

Supporting Question

How do electronic maps make finding some places easier?

Formative Tasks

Use a GPS mapping site to get directions from student’s address to school and participate in a discussion of ways this can make finding the school easier.

Sources

Sources from SQs 1 and 2

Summative Performance Task

Argument: Do We Still Need Paper Maps? Construct an argument supported with evidence that addresses the compelling question.

Extension: Students record their arguments for presentation to their peers.

Taking Informed Action

No data found.

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