Giant map of Asia comes to Concordia

Published by Concordia University, Nebraska 12 years ago on Thu, Nov 17, 2011 7:50 PM
Linda Brettmann’s third grade class from St. John Lutheran School explored the giant map of Asia with students from Concordia.

Students from Concordia and St. John Lutheran School walked across Asia’s 47 countries, or at least across the world’s largest map of that continent. The giant map of Asia was in the Cattle Conference Room on Concordia’s campus Monday, Nov. 14, through Friday, Nov. 18.

The traveling map is part of National Geographic’s Giant Traveling Maps program. Measuring 26 feet by 35 feet and weighing about 145 pounds, the map’s brightly colored, smooth vinyl surface accurately illustrates Asia’s oceans, seas, rivers, mountains, countries and capitals. It came with a trunk full of accessories, including interactive activities and props and photo cards that teach students about the physical characteristics of the continent as well as its rich history, wildlife, and varied cultures. Concordia geography and education students worked with St. John Lutheran students to explore the trunk’s activities.

The map was brought to Seward through the efforts of Dr. Joel W. Helmer, associate professor of geography and social science department chair, who received a grant to cover the costs from the Geography Educators of Nebraska.

Helmer explained his goal for bringing the giant map to Concordia was to give both Concordia students and St. John students the opportunity to focus on the study of geography in a very unique way.

“Geography is not being offered as much anymore in the elementary and secondary schools. Yet, there is a real need for geography education today especially as our world becomes more interconnected,” said Helmer.

National Geographic’s Giant Traveling Maps program was introduced in 2006 with a map of Africa and has since expanded to include maps of Asia, North America, South America and the Pacific Ocean. In the 2011-2012 school year it is estimated more than 450,000 students will interact with one of these maps.