We are drawing maps every day to start our Geography. We follow what Leigh laid out in The Core for beginning to draw the world map. We use the "blob map" that is available on CC Connected. Here is how you teach it.... 1) First we get a blank 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of paper, ruler and a copy of the "blob map" 2) Fold the paper landscaped, in half. This will be your Equator Line.... 3) Next have them use the ruler to draw a line across their crease and write "Equator" on the line... 4) Line up the "blob map" alongside of your piece of paper with the Equator line now drawn. Match the Equator line you drew with the one on the "blob map" and then with your ruler, draw each of the remaining 4 lines of the "Great 5 Circles". Have them label each one. 5) Now begin drawing each "blob" pointing out to them which of the Great Circle lines the blob may cross or include and it's position in relation to the Prime Meridian as well... 6) When they are done, they should have the 5 great circles, prime meridian line, and the 7 Continents all drawn in approximation to their location on the Atlas. This exercise is to begin to conceptualize the positions of each Continent on a map and introduce them to drawing the map. If your child is young, then using tracing paper and tracing the "blob map" at first would be best. Once they can successfully draw it by tracing then you can move on to the above steps. After the "blob map" can be drawn free hand, then you can begin to move them into drawing the shapes more realistically of each Continent and use your black-line Cycle Maps or equivalent.
