Legends & Lands: Exploring Cartography
*This course is intended for upper elementary students
Class Schedule
Tuesdays 9:00-9:50 am PST
September 23, September 30, October 7, October 14, October 21,
(no class October 28), November 4, November 11, November 18
Note: Classes are listed in PST, click below to convert time to your time zone.
Course Overview
Have you ever opened a book and found yourself lost in its map before the first chapter even begins? From enchanted islands to kingdoms, maps in myths and fantasy stories shape the very worlds we imagine. In this course, students will dive into the art of mapmaking through the lens of storytelling and mythology. We’ll explore maps from legends and literature, like Atlantis, the journey of The Odyssey, and the various worlds of Norse mythology, and uncover how geography influences the myths we create. Then, students will get to work crafting their own maps and worlds, and if time allows, writing myths that correspond to these maps.
Student Outcomes:
- Understand and apply the fundamental elements of how maps are made, including scale and symbols
- Analyze how geography influences myths, legends, and storytelling
- Create original maps of fictional lands using symbolic terrain and imaginative detail
- Write companion myths that bring their world to life
- Develop creative storytelling, visual communication, and world-building skills
Student Experience
Inventor
Pattern Seeker
Researcher
Your Teacher: Sarah Merkt
Sarah Merkt has worked as a teacher and curriculum designer for over 12 years in gifted schools in both Asia and America. She holds her certification in Middle Childhood Education from Xavier University. Most recently, she worked for 4 years at The Nueva School in Hillsborough, CA. She is a passionate advocate for gifted students and their parents and strives to infuse best practices into her curriculum in the classroom. She currently serves as Program Manager and Learning Consultant at Cresconova.
