Create a Map - Home to CCMS

Step 1: Gather Materials - Before you begin, make sure you have the following items:

• Access to Google Earth, Google MyMaps, or Google Maps 

• Alternative digital map - use Google Draw or other drawing app.

• Paper (chart paper, plain paper, or graph paper)

• Art supplies (colored pencils, markers, crayons, etc.)

• A ruler for straight lines

Step 2: Research Your Route

1. Use Google MyMaps or another map application to find the route from your home to your school.  You can get a set of directions if you type in your home address to the school's address in the search bar. 

2. Pay attention to key landmarks, street names, and major intersections along the way (zoom in).

3. Note any natural features (e.g., rivers, parks) or man-made structures (e.g., bridges, schools).

4.  Identify the street names to help the reader.

Step 3: Sketch Your Map

1. Make a rough draft of your map on a piece of scratch paper by starting with your home and CCMS. 

2. Once you're pleased with your rough draft, lightly sketch the layout of your map using a pencil on your final map sheet. 

3. Draw the roads, paths, or sidewalks that connect your home to your school. Use a ruler for straight lines. Label the names.

4. Add any important landmarks or features you identified during your research.

Step 4: Add Map Features

1. Title: Write a title at the top of your map. Example: "Map from My Home to School."

2. Compass Rose: Draw a compass rose in the corner of your map to show the cardinal directions (North, South, East, West). Make sure North is pointing North.

3. Legend (Key): Create a legend to explain the symbols and colors you use on your map. For example:

   • Blue line = rivers

   • Green area = parks

   • Red line = main roads

Step 5: Add Final Touches

1. Trace over your pencil lines with a pen or marker for clarity.

2. Use your art supplies to color your map. Make sure different features are easy to distinguish.

3. Double-check that your map includes all required elements: title, compass rose, and legend.

4. Make sure your route from home to school is highlighted.

Step 6: Review Your Work

1. Check your map for accuracy and neatness.

2. Make sure all labels are clear and easy to read.

3. Ask yourself: Would someone unfamiliar with this route be able to use my map to find the school?