Reading Maps Critically (one-day lesson)

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Overview

In this lesson, students will be introduced to the notion that maps are not simply objective representations of reality. They will read about mapmakers’ ‘interests’ and, for homework, find and analyze a contemporary map.

Learning Goals:

  • Students will begin to learn that maps reflect the values and worldviews of the cultures that produce them.
  • Students will begin to consider a mapmaker’s perspective in constructing a map.

DAY ONE

Website Materials:

Additional materials:

  • 3-5 road maps or regional maps that would seem commonplace to students.

Step 1: 15 minutes: Introduction

a) Pass around the everyday maps. Ask students to answer the following questions as they examine the maps:

  • What do the maps show?
  • What is the interest of the mapmaker?

b) Share student responses.

Step 2: 20 minutes: Read documents

a) Explain that maps contain a lot of information about the culture that produces them.

b) Arrange students in groups of 4, and pass out:

  • “What is a Map”
  • “Mapmakers’ Interests”

c) Students answer questions in groups.

Step 3: 15 minutes: Discussion

a) As a whole class, discuss student answers to worksheets.

b) Then, as a whole class, revisit the original maps that were passed around the class.

  • Is there evidence of power relations and cultural practices in these maps?
  • Is there evidence of the mapmaker’s ‘interest?’

Homework

Students should find a map in their house or online and answer the following questions about the map:
  • Who is meant to buy/use this map? Who would not find this map useful?
  • What is depicted on this map? What is not depicted?
  • Is there evidence of power relations and cultural practices in the map? Provide two examples.
  • Is there evidence of the mapmaker’s ‘interest?’ Explain.

Evaluation Criteria:

In order for this homework assignment to meet standards, a student must fulfill the following criteria:

  • Answer all questions.
  • Choose two aspects of the map to analyze.
  • Reflect an understanding of the concepts in the worksheets discussed in class.

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