Giant Map Invites Exploration

Through National Geographic’s Giant Traveling Maps program, our students were able to explore South America with one of the world’s largest maps (35 feet by 26 feet). The brightly colored, smooth vinyl surface of the map accurately illustrates South America’s oceans, seas, rivers, mountains, countries and capitals. It came with a trunk of accessories including interactive activities and props and photo cards that teach students about the physical characteristics of the continent as well as its history, wildlife and varied cultures. Among the activities included with the South America map are “Cultural Geography Relay,” in which students use photos of festivals, music, crafts and sports to learn about the continent’s colorful and diverse cultural life; “Walkabout: South America,” which explores the numerous mountains, rivers, waterfalls and other geographic features; and “The Voyage of the H.M.S. Beagle,” which retraces the voyage of Charles Darwin along the continent’s coastline through excerpts from his journals.

During the time the map was here in our Estes Building, substitute teacher Dana Kuhlen met with classes in grades K-4 to introduce the map and lead them through activities.