Introduction
Have you ever wondered how we locate places on maps? Maps and globes help us explore the world and locate essential places.
In this WebQuest, you will become a map explorer.
Guiding questions:
What are the key elements of a map?
How do we use maps and globes to find locations in Florida?
By the end of this session, you will be able to recognize map components (compass rose, cardinal directions, title, key/legend) and use maps to find locations in Florida.
This lesson aligns with Florida State Standards SS.1.G.1.2 and SS.1.G.1.1, encouraging the development of higher-order thinking skills, as outlined in Bloom's Taxonomy, including interpreting, applying, and analyzing map characteristics.
Task
You and your classmates will collaborate to create a Florida Adventure Map.
Each group will create a map that displays major characteristics and important places in Florida.
You will show your map as a group-narrated PowerPoint or poster and explain how to use it.
Process
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Learn About Maps!
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Watch a short video about maps and their features: National Geographic Kids Map Basics
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Explore an interactive map of Florida: https://mapgoose.com/us/florida/osceola-county
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Group Roles:
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Cartographer: Draws the map and adds a title.
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Navigator: Creates the compass rose and labels cardinal directions.
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Symbol Specialist: Designs a legend (key) with symbols for places.
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Researcher: Finds important locations in Florida to add to the map.
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Create Your Map
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Work together to draw a large map of Florida on poster paper or create one digitally.
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Include a compass rose, title, key/legend, and essential places in Florida.
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Present Your Map
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Create a brief PowerPoint or poster presentation to explain your map.
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Each group member must discuss their role and how they contributed to creating the map.
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Evaluation
Your project will be graded based on the following criteria:
1. Map Elements (25 points)
Includes all required elements: compass rose, title, key/legend, important places
Everything is clearly labeled
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25 points – All elements are present and correctly labeled
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20 points – Most elements are included and labeled correctly
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15 points – Some elements are missing or incorrectly labeled
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10 points – Few or no elements are included
2. Creativity & Neatness (25 points)
The map is colorful, neat, and well-organized
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25 points – Very creative and neatly presented
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20 points – Mostly neat and organized
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15 points – Somewhat messy or unclear
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10 points – Difficult to read or understand
3. Teamwork (25 points)
Everyone participates and works together
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25 points – All group members contributed and worked well together
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20 points – Most members contributed and worked well
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15 points – Some members contributed, but teamwork needed improvement
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10 points – Little teamwork or participation
4. Presentation (25 points)
Each group clearly explains their map and speaks confidently
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25 points – Clear, loud, and confident presentation
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20 points – Mostly clear and confident
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15 points – Somewhat clear but needs improvement
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10 points – Unclear or incomplete presentation
Total Score: ___ / 100
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have learned how to read and create maps, and you explored important places in Florida. Maps help us navigate and understand our world.
Enrichment Activity:
Want to explore more? Use this fun interactive map to test your skills: https://mrnussbaum.com/florida-interactive-map