Grade Level: 3-5

Concept:  Develop map reading skills and library research skills

• identify the continents on a world map
• conduct a library search using online card catalog
• identify the continent of origin for specific animals

• Varying academic levels: uses heterogeneous grouping to allow students of differing abilities to support learning, uses small- and whole-group discussions to ensure all students participate
• Visual learners: reinforces map and geography skills by using a world map and visual aids to determine the names and locations of continents

• Begin your class discussion by asking students to name the seven continents. Write the correct names on the white board or chalkboard. If students provide incorrect responses, such as states or countries, explain to them that these are part of a continent. Refer to the world map. Ask student volunteers to identify the seven continents on the map.
• Pass out the world map coloring page, crayons, glue sticks, and labels to each student. Ask students to color the continents green and the oceans blue. Instruct them to paste the correct labels on each continent. They may refer to the world map in your classroom, if needed.
• Write the word “continent” on the board. Ask students to explain the meaning of this word. Write their responses on the board.

• Divide students into seven groups and assign each group a continent.

• Instruct students to use the library’s online card catalog to find a book or article about their assigned continent. Students should print out a picture and record details about the continent.
• Provide each group of students with approximately 20 minutes for research.
• Once students have completed their research, you can return to the classroom.
• Have students create a report using the print out, construction paper, and markers. The report should include the name of the continent and some facts about the geography, people, or climate.

• Ask each group to discuss its assigned continent, sharing its report with the class.
• Allow a short question-and-answer period for other students to inquire about the reports and their classmates’ findings.
• Next, ask the students to guess the location of the continent on the world map. Instruct the groups to tape their report to the correct continent on the world map.

• Ask students to list other facts about the seven continents. Where would they like to live? Why?
• Discuss: Why are map skills so important? Ask students to describe a situation in which a map would be helpful.