This A+ lesson introduced you to various map symbols for just about anything you might find on a map. Symbols are very important for simplifying information on a map. Your task is to map someplace you know well, using symbols you create!
First, pick a place. You might make a map of this classroom, your house, a world you know from a book or video game. Choose something that is rich enough to need symbols but not so big that you'll never get done.
Next, do some sketches by hand. You are trying to come up with the basic outline or your map and develop your symbols.
Then you start using Publisher to make your map on the computer. If you have never used this program before, please ask for a quick show-n-tell. It is easy to use, easy to learn and works great for simple drawings like this assignment.
Next, make sure you have a key that explains/names each of your symbols. Remember, nothing will be "obvious" to the user.
Finally, print a copy of your map and try using it, or better yet, give it to someone else to use. After that "trial run" use the feedback you get to revise and improve your map.
| A | This map uses at least 15 symbols, has plenty of detail and some creative touches. It is very usable without input from the student who created it. |
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| B | This map uses at least 10 symbols and is recognizable as a map. The map might have a few confusing pieces or be a bit simple, but it shows an honest attempt at map-making. |
| C | This map uses at least 10 symbols and is not very clear in what it is trying to show. The map pieces are all included but would benefit from another draft. |