Unit Plan 11 (PreK Social Studies): Where Things Are—Position Words
Help preschoolers learn position words like near, far, above, below, and next to through fun movement games and simple classroom maps for spatial awareness.
Focus: Help children use position words (near, far, above, below, next to) to describe where things are and follow simple directions using movement games and basic maps/models of the classroom.
Grade Level: PreK
Subject Area: Social Studies (Geography)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 15–20 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, children explore where things are in their classroom and on simple maps. Through movement, play, and picture/model activities, they practice using position words such as near, far, above, below, next to to describe where objects and places are. Children also begin to use simple maps and models to show where things go and follow short routes.
Essential Questions
- How can we tell where something is?
- What words can we use to describe position (near, far, above, below, next to)?
- How can a map or model show where things are in our classroom or playground?
- How can we use position words to follow directions and help others find things?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Use at least two position words (near, far, above, below, next to) when talking about objects or places.
- Describe where an object is using a position word (“The ball is next to the chair”).
- Follow a simple direction that includes a position word (e.g., “Put the block above the book”).
- Help create or use a simple classroom map or model to show where key items or areas are.
Standards Alignment — PreK (C3-based custom)
- PK.C3.Geo.3 — Describe where things are using position words. Uses language like near, far, above, below, and next to.
- Example: “The slide is next to the swings.”
- 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.
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can use words like near, far, above, below, next to.
- I can tell where something is using a position word.
- I can follow a direction that uses a position word.
- I can help make or use a map or model to show where things are.