A WebQuest: Map Skills, Direction and Location

Objectives:

• The learner will use cardinal and relative location terms to describe locations of states and geographic features of the United States and Virginia.

• The learner will complete a simple WebQuest using recommended Internet sites. 

Duration:

     4 hours

Materials:

• Computer work stations

• Four random objects

• Internet sites:

        www.50states.com/virginia.htm,                    

        http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/51/51161.html 

        www.eduplace.com/ss/maps/usa.html

• Relative location sheet

• United States Map

• WebQuest worksheet

Activities:

1. Teacher introduces cardinal direction and relative location terms to whole class using compass rose and four random objects.

2. Paired learners take turns rearranging random objects and using substitution drill to produce 12 written statements describing objects' locations (four using cardinal directions, eight using relative position).

3. Teacher directs whole class activity where learners randomly post their sentences for class to see. Class reviews, making comments, corrections.

4. Paired learners complete WebQuest using WebQuest sheet.

5. Learners compare WebQuest answers and share observations about their WebQuest experience.

Assessment:

Teacher monitors learner progress during activity 2; learners complete WebQuest; learners discuss WebQuest experience.