CM recommends learning geography through the reading of living books. Surprise, surprise! Up until this point we have read Tree in the Trail, Paddle to the Sea, and Seabird. Every couple weeks or so, we review the United States map and both girls pick what couple of states they want to remember for the next "test." For a test, I give them a blank U.S. map and have them tell me how many states they remember. It is kind of fun because each couple of weeks they try to outdo what they did the last time.
I also encourage them to find, on the globe, a new country they hear of in our stories. Sometimes they will do this all on their own. I try, just in casual conversation, to discuss rivers and lakes, or mountains and cities. Not forcing information, but, just taking advantage of an opportunity when it presents itself.
We have, in the past, used the NCAA basketball brackets and the Olympics to talk about different cities, states and countries. We have map puzzles and dry erase maps. A flag of different countries placemat.
This past week, we had a great opportunity to participate in a Geography Fair. It was a very relaxed affair and really encouraged family participation. My kids picked Madagascar. Based on the movie, of course. They had originally picked Spain which was my preference. But, was so delighted in our final product. We (I) learned so much. And what a great way to learn for the kids.
Not only did they get to learn about Madagascar but they walked around and looked at what other families had done as well. Each of the kids took away from the other countries what was impressive or memorable to them. My guess is, it will be something they will always remember.
Do you have a favorite country?
No comments:
Post a Comment