Using+an+Atlas--Going+Places

Using an Atlas by Audrey Williams
 * __Lesson Plan: Using an Atlas: Going Places__**


 * Pre-Assessment: This library lesson plan for middle school is about using an atlas. This lesson plan has been put into place after a Needs Assessment Plan conducted by Audrey Williams for Lake Forest Middle School Media Center. Input from teachers has suggested that TCAP skills must be met not only in the classroom but by crossing curriculum - this could occur within the library. This lesson plan covers one map skill that these students will see on the TCAP in April. This also could fall under reference skills.**


 * Instructional Objectives:**

TLW analyze a road atlas to pick out a state, city, and find interstates that run through that particular city. completion will constitute an A.
 * A-Audience:** The learner will be introduced to a Rand McNally road atlas. TLW learn how to use a road atlas to locate a state, city, and interstates if any that run through that particular city.
 * B-Behavior:** TLW synthesize the information that that will be given by the librarian about using an atlas.
 * C-Conditions:** This lesson will occur in the library and will be demonstrated in class.
 * D-Degree:** The students will be graded on completion of worksheet and participation. Librarian will check all work before class ends. Participation and


 * Materials: Students--** road atlas, pencil, worksheet /**Teacher—**Hardcopy of instructions, 2 globes set up, and an atlas


 * Introduction:** The librarian will explain to the students how to use a road atlas. The librarian will go over the worksheet. An example will be given on the worksheet in which the class will do together w/the librarian. This will be an introduction to map skills, a TCAP review skill, and a reference material skill. This will take a whole class period**.**


 * Set Induction: Librarian will involve class with questions about an atlas:**

What is an atlas and what would you use it for? TLW pass out an atlas for each student and the whole class will flip through the atlas for 2 minutes. The librarian will go over the KEY in the atlas and review symbols for capital cities and Interstates. The librarian will answer questions and observe intently while students are completing the worksheet. TLW receive a bookmark upon completion of assignment.


 * Instructional Sequence:** **The librarian will introduce a Rand McNally Atlas and how to locate information in the atlas by using the KEY.**

The librarian will introduce the symbols in the key: Map Page Locator, Capital Cities, and Interstate Symbol The librarian will read aloud directions on worksheet and do one example at the beginning of class. The librarian will observe students work and grade upon completion.


 * Closure:** The librarian will check work by asking the student to show with hands their particular capital city and show the Interstates that run through their city by tracing with their finger.


 * Adaptation** A Special Ed. Assistant will be available when special needs children are present.


 * Assessment:** When students take the TCAP the test scores will show if these map skills were met.

I would love to add a world atlas introduction following the road atlas lesson. This lesson seemed to receive one of the more positive responses of last years lessons…more exciting of the reference skills!
 * Reflection:** I thought this lesson was very beneficial to all students involved because they truly did need to know how to use a map properly and identify major roads and cities. All students did participate and were very vocal when explaining their work to the librarian.