Concord University is the latest destination for National Geographic’s Giant Traveling Map of Europe. The huge interactive map will be on the Athens campus March 23-March 26, 2015.
Measuring 26 feet by 26 feet, the Traveling Map of Europe will enable area school children to embark on a mock tour of the world’s second smallest continent, while learning about its rich history and diverse geography. The map is designed for grades K-8 and is visiting Concord through National Geographic’s Giant Traveling Maps program, managed by National Geographic Live, the public programming division of the National Geographic Society.
The colorful vinyl floor map will guide students through lessons and fun activities related to Europe’s climate, natural resources, famous landmarks, demographics and more.
Accompanying the map is a trunk of accessories designed to enhance the lessons and encourage student engagement in content-rich games suitable for various age groups and class sizes. The activities include a geography-themed version of “Simon Says,” in which students utilize movement and knowledge to locate key places on the map; “All Aboard the Landmark Carousel,” which explores iconic European landmarks and human geography; and “The Grid Game,” which reviews the concept of identifying a location using latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates.
The map’s visit to Concord coincides with the 2015 West Virginia Geographic Bee being held at the University on Friday, March 27. Bee competitors and their families will explore the map that day in the Pais Fellowship Hall at University Point.
During the other days of its stay on campus, the map will be located in the Ballroom of the Jerry L. and Jean Beasley Student Center.
“Mercer County will shuttle nearly 1,000 students to participate in mapping activities,” Linda Poff, coordinator of the map’s visit, said. “Students will have a hands and ‘feet’ learning experience about the world we live in.
“Concord students will attend to help enrich their learning opportunities in geography education,” she added.
A retired Mercer County teacher, now substitute teacher and former Concord adjunct instructor in geography, Poff is also coordinator of the West Virginia Geographic Bee. She will lead activities on the map of Europe.
This is the third National Geographic Giant Traveling Map to visit Concord. Maps of Asia and North America have also traveled to the University.
To schedule a time to visit the map of Europe during its stop at Concord or for more information contact Poff at lpoff@concord.edu or 304-920-1212.
Visit www.nationalgeographic.com/giantmaps to learn more about the map program.
