Using A Texas Zip Code Map in the Classroom
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When it comes to the educational system today, it sometimes seems as though the subject of Geography is not exactly a priority on the curriculum. Though maybe it’s not so much Geography as it is map reading and comprehension. Few high school students would be able to pull out a Texas zip code map and navigate easily from one town to another. At least, not without a good GPS or some Internet access.
Although it seems that technology may be phasing out physical maps and atlases, the pictorial form of maps will always be around in one way or another. Even online driving directions include a visual map to get a feel for actual route the directions will take you and most GPS systems do the same. It’s ironic, since many people are uncomfortable charting a course from a map, yet still want that same course plotted for them visually via a GPS. And really, something like a Texas zip code map isn’t all that different.
Regardless of how much technology may take away the need for comprehension of physical maps, legends and keys, it is still an important part of any child’s education. The ability to read maps is an important part of basic literacy and learning the language of ‘giving directions’ is an integral part of everyday life. Last but not least, any child needs to be relatively familiar with their own city, landmarks and neighborhood not just for educational purposes, but as a safety precaution as well.
For teachers in a classroom setting, a simple Texas zip code map is probably the best way to start younger children out with maps. An atlas tends to have too many details, symbols and roads on it, leading easily to confusion and is best left to more advanced students. With a state the size of Texas, it’s best to start with a simple, uncrowded map. A good Texas zip code map will have major landmarks and highways as well as each individual zip code shaded in a different color.
There are many sites online that have Texas and other zip code maps available for download, both for free and for purchase. Of course, as the age old adage goes, nothing in life is free, so the free zip code map downloads are usually less detailed and lower quality then those you can purchase for about $10 to $20. The best thing about purchasing a Texas zip code map online is that you get it instantly, with no printing fees and no shipping and handling.
Once you get the map, you can easily print it at school, or for better quality maps, go and find an inexpensive copier store to print it out. If your school has a computer equipped with a projector, or an overhead transparency, it may be best to use that. Teaching map comprehension this way can save the school (or teachers, if they pay out of pocket) some money and it’s better for the environment.
Regardless of how it happens, it’s important for children in any area of the U.S to be familiar with their neighborhood, town and eventually county and state. Learning the basics of reading a map is just as important as a child memorizing their phone number and addresse in case of emergency. It not only strengthens literacy and communication skills, but helps to gain familiarity with their local geography. Whether using a globe, an atlas, or a zip code map of Texas, it’s an important lesson to include in any classroom.
