Administration

Communications

C-SC hosts giant National Geographic map of Asia
Monday, November 10, 2008

CANTON, Mo. – Walking from one side of Asia to the other may seem like an impossible feat, but it’s all in a day’s lesson for students with the world’s largest map of the continent courtesy of National Geographic. Culver-Stockton College’s “Schoolhouse Connections” program will be bringing this map to the C-SC campus from December 1-5. “Schoolhouse Connections” is a series of speakers and events to help student teachers learn more about the teaching field.

The massive map, measuring 41 feet by 31 feet, is designed by National Geographic as a geo-game board inviting students to explore and discover the diverse geography of Asia. This is the second in the Giant Traveling Map series – Africa, the first in the series, began touring in 2006. Approximately 50,000 students in 26 states will now have the unique experience this year of walking across two continents. C-SC will host the Africa map March 2-6, 2009.

The giant maps, designed for grades K-8, come with a trunk full of accessories that teach students about the physical characteristics of the continents as well as the rich history and varied cultures. Students use safaris, scavenger hunts, and competitive games to help make learning about the country locations, capital cities, population centers, and wildlife information fun and exciting.

“Experiencing a map of this size can really awaken a student to the power of maps and the limitless depth of geography,” said Dan Beaupré, National Geographic’s director of education partnerships. “Whether they are using the map to learn place names, or computing population density, students are physically involved in a hands- and feet-on way that makes a lasting impression.”

“We are very happy to have the maps here as a part of ‘Schoolhouse Connections’,” said Terry Sherer, associate professor of education and division chair of education and applied arts at C-SC. “It will give local students and area schools the opportunity to experience something like this.”

The giant map will be displayed in the Charles Field House on the Culver-Stockton campus for free public viewing. Reservations are required.

To make a reservation or for more information, call Mary Lindsey, secretary for the Division of Education, at 573-288-6471.