Activities for WEEK-3Using the Informal Coordinate System to Draw a Map Activity W3.1
Exploring Directions on a Map
In this activity students will explore different places using a map and understand the value of directions mentioned in it.
Ask them to get a Map of their school.
They may be asked to look for a compass rose on the map.
It's usually a small star or flower-like symbol with arrows pointing in different directions.
This handy tool will guide them as they explore directions.
They may be familiarised with the four main directions:
1. North is at the top of the map.
2. South is at the bottom.
3. East is on the right side.
4. West is on the left side.
They may be asked to face a certain direction.
They may then use the compass rose to figure out which direction they are facing.
It's like using a compass to find their way.
Now, allow them to try to locate different places on the map using the directions they have learned.
For example, they might find their classroom to the north of the playground.
You may call out a direction, and the student should point to that direction on the map.
The map can be made tactile with Braille labelling.
Activity W3.1: Exploring Directions on a Map
Theme: Using the Informal Coordinate System
Objective:
To help students understand how to:
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Read a map using cardinal directions (North, South, East, West)
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Identify landmarks in relation to each other
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Use informal coordinate systems and spatial reasoning
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Introduce tactile learning (for inclusive education)
Materials Needed:
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A map of the school (can be teacher-created if not available)
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Compass rose diagram (printed or drawn)
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Braille label sheets (if available, for inclusive support)
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A4 sheets for students to sketch their own maps
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Pencil and ruler
Concepts Involved:
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Cardinal directions (N, S, E, W)
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Relative location (e.g., “Library is east of the main gate”)
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Map orientation
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Visual and tactile learning
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Spatial awareness
Procedure:
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Start with a Map:
Distribute a map of the school to each student or group. Include a compass rose on the map. -
Discuss the Compass Rose:
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Explain that North is usually at the top.
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South is at the bottom.
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East is to the right.
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West is to the left.
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You may even create a fun mnemonic like “Never Eat Soggy Waffles” to help them remember.
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Explore Directions:
Ask students to:-
Stand and face North (as per the map).
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Then ask them to turn and face East, South, and West.
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Locate Landmarks:
Ask students to locate the following using directional clues:-
“What is to the west of the assembly ground?”
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“Which building lies north of the playground?”
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“Where is the staff room in relation to the principal’s office?”
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Interactive Play:
You can turn it into a game:-
Call out directions like “Point to the east on your map!”
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Or ask: “What do you find if you go south from the library?”
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Tactile Support:
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Add Braille labels or raised symbols for key locations (classroom, library, toilet, playground).
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This ensures inclusion for visually impaired learners.
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Examples:
| Landmark | Relative Location Example |
|---|---|
| Library | East of the Staff Room |
| Playground | South of the Main Gate |
| Classroom 5A | North of the Computer Lab |
| Principal's Office | West of the Reception |
| Canteen | Between the Science Lab and Art Room |
Sample Answers to Map Questions:
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Q: What is east of the playground?
A: The library. -
Q: What lies to the north of the school garden?
A: The classrooms. -
Q: If the student is standing at the main gate, in which direction do they walk to reach the science lab?
A: Walk north.
Discussion & Reflection:
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How did the compass rose help you find your way?
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What would happen if you didn't know which direction was north?
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Can we use directions at home or in our neighborhood?
Conclusion:
This activity gives students real-world map reading skills while enhancing their spatial intelligence and orientation sense. It also makes room for inclusive education through tactile and visual tools.
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