The Modern World History class takes a thematic approach to the study of world history from the 15th century through the present. The students have been studying the Portuguese Maritime Empires with a focus on Prince Henry the Navigator. He was an innovative Portuguese figure who advanced maritime research, technology, and exploration by establishing a renowned navigational school and maritime institute that allowed experts to collaborate on navigation, cartography, and ship design. To tie the unit of study together, Mr. Bieder and Ms. Trotochaud tasked the students with utilizing their knowledge and exploring mapmaking first-hand.

“The project showcases the intersection of storytelling and personal identity as maps are a tool that show how all things connect,” said Ms. Trotochaud. “The students enjoyed sharing their maps with their peers as reflecting one's identity adds dimension to how we think and relate to one another.” 

To begin the project, students were asked to list out and rank their hobbies, interests, and passions on a piece of paper and then select their top choice. The students drafted the first rendition of the map on the backside of the paper before transferring it over to a large sheet of paper with a key and scale. The final draft was shared in class via poster presentation with each student taking three to five minutes to explain the meaning of their topic of interest and the mapmaking process. The topic choices were inclusive of athletics, specifically baseball, basketball, rowing, cheerleading, and volleyball along with video games, fantasy dream worlds, traveling, relaxation spots, and more.

Students were graded on three categories: map draft, map presentation, and final map. The map draft was evaluated on attention to detail and accuracy, creativity and aesthetic value, and personal connection to identity. For the class presentation, students were evaluated on public speaking skills and thoughtful speech, the explanation of map symbols and important features, and interesting and engaging narrative. The final map was evaluated on showcasing a sizable amount of work towards mapmaking and expansion beyond first draft, key and scale, attention to detail, and personal connection to identity.