Maps
Rocks all come with stories, and those stories are often hidden in the lines of a map, Image Credit: AFMS
(See more about this image below)
Our world is a complex, three-dimensional sphere. Maps “translate” our three-dimensional world into a simplified two-dimensional flat portrait. Different types of maps have been created to help us understand different things about our complex world.
To earn this badge, you should demonstrate your knowledge of maps of different types, what each type tells us, and how to use them. You might also go on to learn about making a map, where maps may be found, compasses that help us orient North and South on a map, and how to use electronic techniques involving GPS for finding your way around this Earth of ours.
Badge 20 - Maps.pdfYour older Juniors will be fascinated with tools such as bedrock maps, geologic maps, topographic maps and all the ways these can be useful in geology.
This badge goes beyond highway maps, beyond the kids' "Treasure maps", way beyond "Dora the Explorer". Maps are an abstract concept which younger children cannot process well. Therefore, it is most effective with Juniors 3rd grade level and above, all the way through High School.
It can usually be completed in one 60-90 minute session.
<--Click on upper right to open the manual page and see the Requirement options (Activities) offered.
Once opened, you will see the option to print or download this section on your screen.
SUPPLEMENTAL / OPTIONAL MATERIALS
The materials below illustrate how some leaders taught this badge, using 3-4 requirements they chose for their groups. See the Badge manual for other requirement activities you may like better.
Click on Suggested Worksheet Packets links below for the approximate age group you want to explore .
The Maps badge is not entirely suitable for this early elementary age group, but if it is necessary to include this age Juniors in your Maps Badge session, this packet may be helpful.
About the image on this page
We need maps. Maps to find our way to collecting places, maps to show the lay of the land. Maps of mountains, rivers, and ancient seas...maps of rock layers, or trails to mines. Whether it's a map of the two-track leading to Blue Forest Petrified Wood or the Bedrock map of Michigan, learning to use the tools available to us makes this hobby so much more exciting!
Image Credit: AFMS