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Geographies of Home · Lesson 7Published: 2026-04-26

Are Maps Always Truthful?

Learners understand that maps can be inaccurate and explore artists who work to capture the true spirit of a place when maps fail us.

SUBJECTArt, Geography, Social Studies
GRADE3rd Grade
Illustration questioning whether maps always tell the truth

Learning Objectives

  • I can construct maps and other graphic representations of both familiar and unfamiliar places (D2.Geo.1.3-5. C).
  • I can discuss and describe the meaning and purpose of an artwork.
  • I understand that maps can be inaccurate or biased depending on the person who is making it.

Essential Questions

  • What happens when the idea of place becomes complicated?
  • Are maps always truthful?
  • Can a place exist if it’s not on a map?
  • How can you capture the spirit of a place? What connections exist to help you survive and thrive? What values are important in your dream place/world?

Lesson Plan

Last class we explored a more complicated understanding of home. Zarina was forced to leave her home, which changed her relationship with it forever. Today continues an exploration of a more complicated version of home, while continuing to expand our understanding of how place can be represented creatively.

Begin by asking learners, are maps always truthful? This might be an opportunity to reflect back to the mini lesson on day one. Pull up Google Maps and scroll to find Palestine. Engage your learners in a discussion about what you see.

Materials

INCLUDED MATERIALS

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