- Define and explain Our School Grounds in your own words
- Use key terms such as map accurately
- Apply what you have learned to new examples and questions
- Avoid the common mistakes learners make with this topic
This lesson focuses on Our School Grounds: map the school buildings, playgrounds and entrances as seen from above.
Map the school buildings, playgrounds and entrances as seen from above.
Key ideas
Plans show places from above
A plan is a simple map of a small area, such as a classroom. Because it is drawn from directly above, things look different from usual: a table becomes a rectangle and a door becomes a gap in a wall. Drawing plans helps you notice where things are in relation to each other.
Symbols keep maps tidy
Writing the word 'playground' across a map would cover it up, so map-makers use small symbols instead. The key tells the reader what each symbol means. The same symbol can be reused many times — one tree symbol can mark every tree in a park.
Key term — map: A drawing that shows a place as it looks from above, usually smaller than the real place.
What is a map?
A drawing of a place as seen from above.
Answer: A drawing of a place as seen from above.
- Thinking the symbol is the real size A tree symbol on a map is far smaller than a real tree. Symbols are not drawn to size; they just mark positions.
- Forgetting to use the key Guessing what a symbol means leads to mistakes. The key is part of the map — read it before you start.
Practice
A circle.
Symbols save space and keep the map clear and easy to read.
In the key (sometimes called the legend).
Human — roads are built by people.
Quick check
Which of these best defines "map"?
Is a river a human or a physical feature?
- Our School Grounds: map the school buildings, playgrounds and entrances as seen from above.
- Plans show places from above: A plan is a simple map of a small area, such as a classroom.
- aerial view: Seeing a place from directly above, like a bird flying over it.
- Watch out for: thinking the symbol is the real size