CU 1.11Pin Maps and Label Maps
The reading child places labeled pins or label cards on a puzzle map to name continents, countries, or states, checking with a control map.
Presentation
- 1
Invite a child who can read short words. Bring the North America puzzle map with its pin box and control map.
- 2
Take out one pin, read the label aloud ('Canada'), and find Canada on the map.
- 3
Place the pin in the hole in Canada.
- 4
Read and place two more pins (United States, Mexico).
- 5
Show how to check with the control map, pointing to each name.
- 6
Invite the child to read and place the remaining pins, one at a time.
- 7
Show how to remove the pins and return them to the correct compartments.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Place pins on the world map for all seven continents and five oceans
- Place pins for the countries of another continent
- Place pins for the states of the United States
- Place flag pins alongside name pins
- Place capital city pins for North American countries or the United States
Control of error
The labeled control map shows every name in its correct place; the child compares the finished pin map to it.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Reads and places all pins on one map with few errors
- Checks own work with the control map and corrects mistakes
- Places pins for a map from memory without using the control map first
Guide note
Pins are sharp. Use pins with plastic heads, keep them in a lidded box, and supervise children who still put objects in their mouths.