History Students Turn Storytellers Via Cartography Project

The Modern World History class takes a thematic approach to the study of world history from the 15th century through the present. In class with Mr. Bieder, the students have been studying the Portuguese and Spanish Maritime Empires with a focus on Prince Henry the Navigator. Prince Henry the Navigator was a 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. Mr. Bieder introduced the project as a way for students to experience the triumphs and challenges of mapmaking first-hand by creating their own and to utilize what they learned to share something meaningful.

“Students have enjoyed the ability to express themselves in an artistic and creative way while also being precise and accurate in their approach,” said Mr. Bieder. “Students have also enjoyed experiencing mapmaking as a form of storytelling. The students' maps serve as narrative devices as they present the stories behind the maps to their peers.”

The mapmaking process began with students being 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. Once completed, the students created a final draft on a large sheet of paper with a key and scale. With their completed maps in hand, it was presentation day as the students spent three to five minutes sharing the process and the personal meaning behind their topic. Topic choices included swimming, volleyball, hockey, and basketball with a specific example of Beckerman Athletic Center Court 1 for athletics, Fortnight and Persona5 in the videogame sector, books and reading, and more.

As part of the final assessment, the 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.