Map unexplored territory
Create a map of an unexplored area like a backyard or classroom by measuring distances with steps, noting landmarks, drawing scale, and labeling features.
About this activity
Create a map of an unexplored area like a backyard or classroom by measuring distances with steps, noting landmarks, drawing scale, and labeling features.
What you need
Step by step
- 1
Step 1
Pick an unexplored area to map like your backyard or a classroom that you can walk around safely.
- 2
Step 2
Place a sticky note or small toy to mark your starting point.
- 3
Step 3
Choose which way will be “north” and mark that direction with another sticky note or a drawn arrow on the ground.
- 4
Step 4
Walk ten normal steps in a straight line from the starting point while an adult counts out loud.
- 5
Step 5
Put a sticky note where you stopped after those ten steps.
- 6
Step 6
Measure the distance between the starting sticky note and the ten-step sticky note with a tape measure or ruler.
- 7
Step 7
Divide that measured distance by 10 to find the length of one step and write that number down with adult help.
- 8
Step 8
Walk from the starting point to the first landmark while counting your steps out loud.
- 9
Step 9
Put a sticky note on that first landmark and write the number of steps you counted on the note.
- 10
Step 10
Walk from the first landmark to a second landmark while counting your steps out loud.
- 11
Step 11
Put a sticky note on the second landmark and write the number of steps you counted on the note.
- 12
Step 12
Walk from the second landmark to a third landmark while counting your steps out loud.
- 13
Step 13
Put a sticky note on the third landmark and write the number of steps you counted on the note.
- 14
Step 14
On your paper choose a map scale (for example 1 cm = 1 step), then draw your map using that scale, add the starting point and a north arrow, and plot and label every sticky-note landmark.
- 15
Step 15
Share your finished map on DIY.org
Fun facts
How to map an unexplored area like a backyard or classroom?
Start by picking the area and walking its boundaries so your child can observe landmarks. Measure distances by counting the child’s steps, marking start and end points. Sketch a rough layout, note features (trees, doors, benches), then choose a scale (for example, 1 step = 30 cm) and redraw the map to scale using a ruler or grid. Add labels, a north arrow, and a legend. Encourage checking measurements together and decorating the finished map.
What materials do we need to create a map of unexplored territory?
You’ll need paper or a notebook, pencils, eraser, ruler, and crayons or markers for drawing and labeling. Bring a clipboard or stiff backing, measuring tape (optional), and a simple compass or phone compass for direction. Stickers or colored flags help mark landmarks; a stopwatch or tally counter can aid step counts. Comfortable shoes and a small bag for supplies make exploring easier. Adult supervision and a camera or phone to photograph features are useful.
What ages is this mapping activity suitable for?
This activity is easily adapted by age: Preschoolers (3–5) enjoy walking, pointing out landmarks, and making simple drawings with adult help. Elementary children (6–10) can count steps, sketch basic scales, and label features. Tweens (11–13) can measure more precisely, create scales and legends, and use compasses or grid systems. Teens can plan routes, record coordinates, and check accuracy. Always match complexity and supervision to the child’s ability.
What are the benefits, safety tips, and variations for this mapping activity?
Mapping builds observation, spatial thinking, measurement skills, and vocabulary while promoting teamwork and outdoor play. Safety tips: set clear boundaries, wear sturdy shoes, use sun protection, and avoid unsafe areas like ponds or busy roads; supervise closely. Try variations: a treasure-hunt map, a scaled collage using photos, night mapping with flashlights, or digitizing the map with geotagged photos. Adjust tasks to keep it fun and educational for every child.
Watch & Learn
Need help?
What can we use instead of sticky notes or a tape measure if we don't have them?
Use small stones, coins, masking tape, or pieces of paper to mark the starting point and landmarks, and replace a tape measure with a ruler, a yardstick, or a printed ruler on paper to measure the distance between the starting sticky note and the ten-step sticky note.
What should we do if our steps aren't straight or we lose count while walking the ten normal steps?
Have an adult hold a string or walk a straight chalk line to keep your path straight, ask the adult to count out loud while you walk, and double-check the distance by measuring between the starting sticky note and the ten-step sticky note with the tape measure pulled taut.
How can we change the activity for younger or older children?
For younger kids, shorten the walk to five steps and let an adult write the step counts on each sticky note, while older children can use a compass to mark true north, record exact measured distances, and choose a detailed map scale like 1 cm = 1 step when drawing the map.
How can we make the finished map more interesting or useful before sharing it on DIY.org?
Personalize the map by drawing unique icons for each sticky-note landmark, adding a north arrow and a legend, color-coding paths, labeling measured step distances to scale, and gluing photos of the landmarks to the paper before you share the finished map on DIY.org.