Learning science includes learning to argue with "inscriptions": images used to symbolize information persuasively. This study examined sixth-graders learning to invest inscriptions with representational status, in a geographic information system (GIS)-based science investigation. Learning to reason with inscriptions was studied in emergent…

Discusses a study of sixth grade children's preferences regarding the portrayal of houses on maps. Reports that there were no significant differences between boys' and girls' preferences for the manner in which rooftops and streets were oriented. Concludes that apparent sex differences found previously may have been a result of the preferences of…

Describes two mini-units, a primary grade activity and upper grade activity, to teach elementary students location skills by becoming map-makers, rather than merely interpreting maps made by others. Students learn to locate areas of a grid, to use a compass rose, to use scale and plot distances, to solve proportion problems, and to enlarge…

This book is designed to help students use their geography knowledge in real-life situations and explorations. The approach emphasizes problem-solving activities in which students can use higher-level thinking skills together with basic geographical facts. The activities are organized into two groups--Daily Problems and Extended Challenges.…

The process of constructing a test to assess geographic knowledge and understandings of fifth and sixth grade pupils is discussed. In addition, a draft of a test to measure geography skills and knowledge of physical and human geography is presented. The document is presented in three sections. In section I, information is presented on test…

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)