Transatlantic Slave Trade Student Map and Questions

I designed this map activity along with accompanying questions to engage students in actively recreating a historical map, fostering both spatial understanding and critical thinking skills. Students are tasked with recreating the map on their worksheets, using colored pencils with attention to detail. To facilitate this process, I project the map at the front of the classroom, allowing students to reference it as they work and providing assistance to those who require closer examination. I have also posted a link on the private class website for students to open the map on their own personal computers in the classroom or at home.

The accompanying questions serve multiple purposes: they offer a meaningful extension for students who finish quickly, provide an opportunity for deeper exploration and application of prior knowledge, and can be seamlessly integrated into homework assignments for those needing additional time. Given the prevalence of geographic literacy challenges among high school students, incorporating such map activities into the curriculum becomes imperative. Continual exposure to historical maps not only enhances geographical proficiency but also enriches students' understanding of historical contexts.

In instances where time is limited, this map activity can serve as a valuable homework assignment, reinforcing learning beyond the classroom. Moreover, in the context of remote learning, the map activity, coupled with the accompanying questions, can effectively facilitate independent learning experiences at home.