SHS3 Geography · Semester 1 Week 14: Maps, Their Elements and Analyses

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.2.1.LI.2 - Analyse cultural features on maps (e.g. settlements, farms and roads)

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Identify and name at least four types of cultural features (settlements, farms, roads, and other human-made features) shown on a topographical map, using the correct map symbols and conventional signs.
Describe the pattern and distribution of settlements (e.g. nucleated, dispersed, linear) on a topographical map and explain what the pattern suggests about the area.
Analyse how farms, roads and settlements are connected to natural features such as relief and drainage on a topographical map, giving at least two specific examples from the map studied.
Compare cultural features seen on a topographical map with the same features viewed on Google Earth 3D, and state one advantage of each viewing method.
Demonstrate critical thinking by making reasoned inferences about how cultural features reflect human activity, economic life and settlement history in the mapped area.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Navigating Our Environment (Strand 2)
Sub-strand: Maps, Their Elements and Analyses (2.1)
Content standard: 3.2.1.CS.1 - 3.2.1.CS.1 Demonstrate skills and competencies in interpreting and analysing maps 3.2.1.LO.1 Analyse natural and cultural features on topographical maps base on the knowledge gained from the representation of relief features on maps
Indicator: 3.2.1.LI.2 - Analyse cultural features on maps (e.g. settlements, farms and roads)
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 14 (Week 14 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 105

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

- Through think-pair-share, analyse the interrelationship between natural and cultural features on topographical maps and compare with the 3D view on Google Earth. Learners should be aware of the different background of their colleagues.
- Learners should realise that they can accomplish their goals with hard work, persistence, and good strategies.

Assessment (3.2.1.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Google Earth in 3D view (zoom to the area covered by the topographical map, so learners can see the natural and cultural features they are describing and analysing)
- Topographical map (if possible, one covering your school locality)