The world in spatial terms
Putting human and physical systems in a spatial context is a way to visualize their relationships. One way this is done is by mapping. As aids to inquiry, maps and map-making activities are essential to the elementary grades classroom.
Maps put information in a spatial context which allows the viewer to see patterns and relationships. These patterns and relationships can be between physical systems (e.g., mountain ranges and rivers), between humans and physical systems (e.g., Egyptians and the Nile River), between one political system (a human system) and another (e.g., South Korea and North Korea). Almost human or physical feature that can be visualized can be mapped.
Two-dimensional maps include physical maps showing landscape features of Earth, such as water bodies and deserts; topographic maps, similar to physical maps but including contour lines and elevation information; political maps showing state and national boundaries as well as city locations; climate maps; resources or economics maps indicating the location of the world's natural resources or economic activities; and thematic maps which focus on special topics. One of the most common two-dimensional maps is a road map.
Mapping systems include GIS and GPS. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are used by government agencies and the private sector alike. GIS integrate hardware, software, and data, producing maps which can be layered, allowing disparate sets of information to be analyzed in relationship. GPS stands for Global Positioning System, a network of orbiting 24 satellites maintained by the US government that provides time and location information anywhere in the world.
Mental mapping allows information to be organized in a way that is personally meaningful. The visualization technique of mental mapping provides a structure on which to map concepts as well as break down ideas into manageable chunks of information. It also can serve as a jumping-off point for summarizing and generalization. Once information is organized in a mental map, it can be analyzed more deeply.
Learn about mental maps by following this lesson for 3rd-graders on making a mind map of Belgium.
http://www.drawmeanidea.com/2012/03/geography-mind-map-of-belgium.html
