Unit Plan 12 (PreK Social Studies): Mapping Our Classroom
PreK children create simple maps and models of the classroom, noticing important places and how maps help us find where things are.
Focus: Help children create simple maps and models of the classroom using blocks, paper, and symbols, while using observation and play to notice where important places and objects are.
Grade Level: PreK
Subject Area: Social Studies (Geography • Inquiry)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 15–20 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, children explore the classroom as a space that can be looked at carefully, talked about, and represented using maps and models. Through walks around the room, building with blocks, and drawing simple floor plans, they learn that a map or model shows where things are and helps people find places. Children practice using observation to notice key classroom landmarks (door, rug, tables, shelves) and then represent those places with shapes, blocks, and picture symbols.
Essential Questions
- What are the important places in our classroom?
- How can we look closely to see where things are in our room?
- How can we use blocks, paper, and symbols to make a simple map or model?
- How does a map help us remember and find places in our classroom?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Identify at least two important places in the classroom (rug, door, tables, cubbies, centers).
- Use observation to notice where those places are and how they connect (e.g., “The rug is near the door”).
- Help create a simple classroom model using blocks or other materials to show where key areas are.
- Help draw or complete a simple classroom map using shapes and picture symbols.
Standards Alignment — PreK (C3-based custom)
- PK.C3.Geo.2 — Use simple maps and models to represent places. Draws or builds models showing key landmarks or routes.
- Example: Drawing a map from the classroom to the cafeteria.
- PK.C3.Inq.2 — Explore information through observation and play. Looks closely at people, objects, and places to find out more.
- Example: Watching how mail is delivered to school.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can name important places in our classroom.
- I can look closely and tell where things are in the room.
- I can help build a model of our classroom with blocks.
- I can help make a map of our classroom using shapes and symbols.