A hierarchial sequence for map skills instruction is proposed and related to existing programs. Emphasis in this sequential structure is placed on gradual development of the student's ability to use grid reference systems and orient himself satisfactorily on maps, as well as the gradual acquisition of certain measurement abilities. (SM)

This article considers the idea that an analysis of the structure of geography and of the nature of spatial concept development in children will reveal a valuable conceptual link that might serve as a theoretical basis for developing objectives in geographic education. (Author)

Describes a field sketch mapping project conducted with a sixth-grade class. The project involved selecting appropriate sites around the school to map, organizing the students, and instructing them about measuring distances and drawing maps. Illustrations include assignments and examples of students' work. (MJP)

Contends that effective use of time is critical in today's elementary classroom. Describes a curriculum development process in which 75 preservice elementary teachers created an integrated geography, language arts, and arts curriculum. Maintains that the approach could be used at all levels to teach about geographic features. (CFR)

The map skills development component of an elementary level social science reading curriculum project was tested for effects. Analyses show significant mean score differences in favor of the experimental group of the post measurement. (Author/JB)

Lists some of the citations in the ERIC database dealing with teaching global studies in elementary school. Includes works on approaches to integration of ethnic content into the curriculum, procedures for evaluating multicultural books, and teaching suggestions. Suggests that young students do not narrowly define culture. (DK)

Increased knowledge of geographic place name vocabulary continues to be important to student academic success. Place knowledge is a vital part of students' learning to be responsible citizens by helping them become more conscious of the world around them and preparing the world around them and preparing them to enter a global workplace. This study…

Presents a model for teaching fourth graders some aspects of the population geography of California. The lessons are structured and teacher-directed, examine the question of why so many people have moved to California, and use a variety of social inquiry processes. (Author/AV)

Discussed are results of a test which measured elementary educators' map reading skills. Results indicate that elementary educators must improve their skills if they are to provide fundamental map skills to students. (Author/DB)

Describes a teaching technique that develops concepts of weather and seasons through the use of a weather calendar and graph. Suggests daily and monthly activities for the first-, second-, and third-grade curriculum. Concludes that this technique helps students develop a foundation of essential geography skills and processes. (KO)

Presents study results determining the abilities of sixth graders to work with digital data. Defines digital data as data that can be recorded, used, and stored as numbers. Explains that the research dealt with making and using a digital map. Concludes that sixth graders are capable of using digital data in geography classes. (DK)

Examines pupil test data to identify map and globe skill categories in which sixth graders are deficient; determines the grade levels and the extent to which these skills are introduced and maintained in selected elementary social studies textbooks; and estimates whether the deficiencies would be prevented if teachers follow one series through six…

Maintains that children love books, and through carefully selected books, geographic concepts can be taught. Explains how children's literature encourages geographic thinking, builds geographic skills, and develops lasting mental maps of places and regions. Discusses 14 suggested books. (CFR)

Describes a lesson plan that uses Main Street images of three towns to encourage students to recognize and compare human and physical characteristics of places. The lesson teaches the geographic concepts of site (absolute location) and situation (relative location) as well as introducing students to urban geography. (MJP)