Examines potential uses of mental maps in the classroom by reviewing research efforts, providing an example of the differences between mental maps of two student groups, and suggesting how to use mental maps in the geography curriculum. Mental mapping (or cognitive mapping) refers to individuals' processes of collecting, storing, and retrieving…

Presents a lesson designed to simulate the events of The Alaskan Native Claims Settlement Act in the classroom by assigning students roles as different Alaska natives with different concerns. Emphasizes map reading skills, resource inventorying, composite map production, land use and cultural values, and the process of land selection. (Author/AEM)

Describes the hardware and some of the choropleth mapping software available for the IBM-PC, PC compatible and Apple II microcomputers. Reviewed are: Micromap II, Documap, Desktop Information Display System (DIDS) , Multimap, Execuvision, Iris Gis, Mapmaker, PC Map, Statmap, and Atlas Map. Vendors' addresses are provided. (JDH)

Defines cognitive mapping and describes an exercise that adapts methods applied by geographers conducting advanced research in environmental cognition in order to help students think about their perceptions of the spatial organization of a well-known environment. Instructor's and students' tasks are identified and sample handouts are included.…

These learning activities involve secondary geography students in making a turf map, using map grids, solving problems dealing with map scale, and making a map scale. Complete teacher instructions are provided. (RM)

Secondary teachers should find these guidelines useful in helping students to become more map conscious and critical of maps. Various ways in which map elements can be manipulated to make maps persuasive and how such maps have been used are examined. Tips for identifying these maps are provided. (RM)

Describes how study of irrigation practices on topographic maps can help students in introductory high school and college geography courses understand man and land relationships to geography. (Author/DB)

Designates steps to be taken at all stages of the map production process from planning to printing. Pointers include making sure that the map is essential rather than purely decorative; considering the audience for whom the map is intended; determining the primary message that the map is intended to convey; and considering the dimensions of the…

Recommends making choropleth maps as a fun and interesting way to teach geographic concepts. Choropleth maps represent data and ratios (population density, voter registration) and can be constructed easily. Includes suggested activities and representative maps. (MJP)

Asserts that travelers' diaries are excellent primary sources that can be used to teach geography. Maintains that state historical societies and local archives are good sources for these documents. Includes lengthy excerpts from two diaries and a student worksheet. (CFR)

Asserts that all maps lie in two ways: (1) by concealing part of the whole truth or (2) by falsifying some part of the truth. Discusses how this topic can be used in geography instruction. Includes a description of class assignments and figures illustrating how maps and written directions include inaccuracies and deliberate lies. (CFR)

Presents instructions for a class project to produce a raised relief map. Reports that students will learn to interpret elevations from contour lines, interpret map symbolization, realize that the area represented is a real area, and redefine the meaning of a map scale. Includes a list of materials needed and details of construction. (DK)

Describes a lesson plan for use in physical geography, earth science, and social studies classes. Suggests that students will find the problem solving approach interesting and will use knowledge of earth-sun relationships, absolute location, and place. Includes objectives, two days of learning activities, evaluations, resources, and an activity…

Discusses the challenges of teaching high school geography in a way that enables students to develop an informed, spatial view of the world. Discusses the High School Geography Project and its effect on geography instruction. Suggests a map drawing exercise for students to demonstrate the importance of mental maps. (DK)

Defines and describes the use of choropleth maps in geography instruction. Identifies the six basic steps for constructing choropleth maps and recommends their use in secondary classrooms. Includes five maps and two tables applying choropleth maps to Central American and Caribbean nations. (CFR)