1. Mental maps Year 7 Homework Time allowed: 2 weeks

2. Equipment 1 sheet A3 paper Coloured pens/pencils/felts Ruler (optional) Internet access (optional)

3. Mental maps A person's perception of the world is known as a mental map. A mental map is an individual's own internal map of their known world. Geographers like to learn about the mental maps of individuals and how they order the space around them. This can be investigated by asking for directions to a landmark or other location, by asking someone to draw a sketch map of an area or describe that area, or by asking a person to name as many places near to where they live as possible in a short period of time.

4. Activity Create a “mental map” of your home area. Mark on places that are important to you eg… School Park Cinema Shops Football stadiums etc… Landmarks (famous buildings, river, main road etc..)

5. How to make a mental map: Start off with a sketch map of your area. An example has been provided on slide 6. Then add your house and details of places you pass on your journey. Use symbols and pictures as an alternative to words. (the map symbols on slide 7 may help you here). Invent your own symbols if you need to. Give your map a key explaining what each symbol means. Use arrows to indicate the direction you travel to school.

8. Plenary On the back of your mental map, write 200 words explaining how our own personal geography make us… A) similar to some people? (100 words) B) different to some people? (100 words)