Students at Long Creek Elementary will soon be exploring the United States in a big way — with a giant floor map of the country.
The map, measuring 11 feet by 14 feet is designed as a geo-game board to introduce students to the power of maps and the diverse geography of the United States.
The Mississippi Geographic Alliance at the University of Mississippi will bring the map to Long Creek Elementary on Friday, May 11.
The map’s brightly colored, smooth vinyl surface accurately illustrates physical geography (landforms, oceans), political geography (locations of states, shapes of states), and enhances mapping skills (cardinal directions, scale). Designed for grades K-8, the map includes cut-outs of all 50 states and fun, hands-on activities that enrich geography, science, and social studies learning.
Carley Lovorn, Assistant Director of the Mississippi Geographic Alliance at the University of Mississippi said “Getting students on the giant map is a wonderful way to get them excited about exploring our country. The sheer size of the map engages the students, and while they are having fun, they’re also improving their geographic, mapping, and spatial thinking skills. It’s a unique learning experience they won’t forget.”
We are excited to have the Giant Map at Long Creek. It is a powerful and engaging tool and a unique learning experience. To learn more about the Giant Map project, visit https://mga.olemiss.edu/services/.
About the Mississippi Geographic Alliance: The Mississippi Geographic Alliance at the University of Mississippi works to strengthen geographic literacy in the state of Mississippi. A member of the nationwide network of state alliances sponsored by the National Geographic Society, MGA uses workshops, online resources, and other programs to help educators prepare students to embrace a diverse world, succeed in the global economy, and steward the planet’s resources. For more information visit www.mga.olemiss.edu, or contact Carley at [email protected] or 662-915-3776.
