Social Studies Worksheet · Grades 2–4
Maps and Globes Worksheet
A printable social studies worksheet for grades 2-4 comparing maps and globes: a map is flat, portable, and detailed, while a globe is a round model that shows the whole Earth accurately. Students choose the better tool for eight tasks, then answer six short questions. A complete answer key is included.
Subject
Social Studies
Grades
Grades 2–4
Skill Focus
Maps and Globes, geography
Lesson Length
15 minutes
Lesson Overview
About this worksheet
A map and a globe both show the Earth, but differently. A map is flat – it can be folded, carried, and zoomed in to show small details, but it slightly stretches shapes near the edges. A globe is a round model of the whole Earth that shows true shapes and sizes but is bulky and cannot show small details. This worksheet teaches students which tool fits which job.
Section A gives eight tasks (finding the streets in your town, seeing the true round shape of Earth, folding it for a hiking trip) and asks students to choose map or globe, balanced four and four. The reference box explains the strengths of each tool but names none of the eight Section A tasks.
Section B is short-answer. Students contrast a map and a globe, explain why a globe is more accurate for shapes, say why a map is easier to travel with, and name something each tool shows better. Page 3 is a complete answer key. The skill underpins all map and geography work.
How to Use This Lesson
Read the reference box aloud and pass around a map and point to a globe.
Complete Section A independently – have students ask ‘do I need detail and portability, or the whole round Earth?’
Discuss Section B item 14 (planning a short walk) to reinforce when a map is best.
Use the answer key on page 3 for self-check or teacher review.
Pair with the Map Skills Worksheet or the Continents and Oceans Worksheet for a geography mini-unit.
Printable Resource
A classroom-ready PDF with everything in one printable resource.
Full Member Resource · Printable PDF · 3 pages · Answer Key
Maps and Globes Worksheet
A printable social studies worksheet for grades 2-4 comparing maps and globes: a map is flat, portable, and detailed, while a globe is a round model that shows the whole Earth accurately. Students choose the better tool for eight tasks, then answer six short questions. A complete answer key is included.
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