Mapmakers' Perspective (one-day lesson)
Overview
In this lesson, students will examine several maps and consider mapmakers' perspective in early depictions of North America. Students will also learn how the spherical shape of the earth makes any north-south and east-west orientation a matter of perspective. For homework, students will draw a world map that flips the standard depiction of the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.
Learning Goals:
- Students will examine early European maps and trace the depiction of the West.
- Students will begin to think critically about perspective in mapmaking.
DAY ONE
Website Materials:
Step 1: 10 minutes: Introduction
a) Pass out “Mercator and Peter Projections” worksheet and have students complete individually.
b) Share student responses. Ask students:
- What parts of the globe are in the West, according to both Mercator’s and Peter’s map?
- Does that necessarily need to be the case?
Step 2: 15 minutes: Examine maps
Pass out “Ptolemy” and “Ortelius’ Atlas” and have students read individually and answer questions.
Step 3: 10 minutes: Discussion
As a whole class, discuss the following:
- What are some similarities and differences between Ptolemy’s and Ortelius’s maps?
- How do their maps compare to world maps that you’ve encountered in school?
Step 4: 15 minutes: Read document
Pass out “Russian Exploration” and have student read document and answer questions. Discuss question #2 as a whole class.
Homework
Draw a world map that puts Asia and Europe in the Western Hemisphere and North America in the Eastern Hemisphere.
Answer the following question: Do you think it matters which areas lie to the east or west in a world map? Why or why not?
EVALUATION CRITERIA:
In order for this homework assignment to meet standards, a student must fulfill the following criteria:
- Draw the map correctly.
- Incorporate the notion of perspective. Thoughtful responses should consider what it means to have the Atlantic Ocean centered on a map, rather than the Pacific.
