LFCDS "Where in the World" Giant Map Installed

While most people were enjoying some well-deserved respite from what will forever be known as the “polar vortex” winter of 2014, Chair of the World Language Department Nan Caldwell was busy installing a large, paneled map of the world on behalf of the World Language Department. This new map measures 8 feet by 13 feet and is positioned in the hallway leading to the main gym to ensure maximum visibility.

Mrs. Caldwell mentioned that the map is a productive measure taken by the World Language Department to increase geographical awareness in students as part of the Department’s larger effort to foster global citizens. Mrs. Caldwell is struck by the generally low level of geographical illiteracy among young adults in the United States and added that it is a real concern for children as they become part of an increasingly international world. According to a recent National Geographic survey, sixty-three percent of young Americans could not identify Iraq on a map of the Middle East. Mrs. Caldwell states that it is crucial to understand the larger geographical layout as a foundation to studying art, literature, history, cultures, measurements, current events or any lesson that has a geographical context. Citing the “Crimea” as a prime example, the Chair of the World Language Department mentioned that it is essential to understand this country’s larger positioning in the global landscape in order to posit ethical arguments on Russia and Ukraine’s current conflict.

While the general purpose of the map is to give students a chance to familiarize their place in the larger world, the World Language Department anticipates that its application to various school classes and projects will be broad and diverse. One of the best features of the map is that you are able to draw on it with dry-erase markers, instantly making the map an interactive global tablet for students and teachers to modify and personalize to specific lessons. Whether it is tracing immigration routes, animal migration journeys, imperialism in the eighteenth century, or mapping out the countries partaking in the World Cup, this map presents numerous educational opportunities that are primed toward visual learners.

The World Language education at LFCDS is so much more than the bare structural learning and composition of language. While students become adept in vocabulary comprehension and grammar applications, they are also receiving a well-rounded education in the culture, geography, and general feel for the countries and people they are studying. The “Where in the World” map is just another testament to the World Language Department’s desire to go above and beyond the call when it comes to preparing students for life outside of LFCDS.