G6 I&S

Mapping Our World/ Our Changing Earth

During the Grade 6 unit of Mapping Our World we examined the identity of who we are and every class member designed and drew their own poster containing nine unique features about themselves. They then described these personal attributes and abilities to their classmates via a spoken presentation. Following this in class we explored the many features and components of maps including latitude, longitude, continents, oceans, seas, contour lines, compasses and directions. The final project culminated in each student designing and producing a map borne out of their own creativity on an A3 paper with gridlines and then a second with their ‘world’ recreated on the ‘Incarta’ computer programme. Every student then described their world in a written description including explaining the reasons they had chosen some of the names for the geographical features like continents or oceans contained in their unique world.

In the subject of Individuals and Societies, Geographical tools (such as atlases, maps, keys or legends, globes, compasses or Google Earth) are man-made constructs that enhance communication about the world’s locations. There is also the possibility of exploring spatial activities with more hands-on application. The mapping exercises also provide a sound foundational framework for the second unit: ‘Our Changing Earth’ which outlines the distinctive biomes on planet Earth. Within this unit Identity as explored by in an IB international school helps to bring explicit connections to each learner about their class and schoolmates and the unique existence they bring to this school community.