Education Blog

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When it comes to the educational system today, it sometimes seems as though the subject of Geography is not exactly a priority on the curriculum. Though maybe it’s not so much Geography as it is map reading and comprehension. Few high school students would be able to pull out a Texas zip code map and navigate easily from one town to another. At least, not without a good GPS or some Internet access.

Although it seems that technology may be phasing out physical maps and atlases, the pictorial form of maps will always be around in one way or another. Even online driving directions include a visual map to get a feel for actual route the directions will take you and most GPS systems do the same. It’s ironic, since many people are uncomfortable charting a course from a map, yet still want that same course plotted for them visually via a GPS. And really, something like a Texas zip code map isn’t all that different.

Despite the technological advances that seem to be phasing out actual maps, map reading and legend and symbol comprehension should remain an important part of any child’s education. Reading maps is the start of basic literacy and learning the language of ‘giving directions’ is important part of most countries’ culture. It makes sense even for the purpose of safety precautions for a child to be familiar with their own area and major landmarks.

An easy to read Texas zip code map may be the best way to go for educators in the classroom. A typical road map has too many different symbols and details on it for elementary school children to begin with. Road maps are definitely for the more advanced and with a state as big as Texas, an easy to read, uncluttered map is the best way to get kids engaged. A quality Texas zip code map will include zip code borders (with each zip area a different color) as well as major landmarks and roads.

There are many sites online that have Texas and other zip code maps available for download, both for free and for purchase. Of course, as the age old adage goes, nothing in life is free, so the free zip code map downloads are usually less detailed and lower quality then those you can purchase for about $10 to $20. The best thing about purchasing a Texas zip code map online is that you get it instantly, with no printing fees and no shipping and handling.

After purchasing a map, it’s up to a teacher to decide whether to print it or just show it on a projector. You can either print low quality copies right at school, or get better prints by paying out of pocket to have them done at a local copier. Of course, using a projector hooked up to a computer or an overhead transparency is cheaper. It’s also more eco-friendly - always a good lesson for children.

Map reading needs to be including in all classrooms, whether it’s from an atlas or a simple Texas zip code map. Basic map reading could be just as useful and important for kids to know as learning their own phone number and address in case of an emergency. It will help them become familiar with their area, as well as boost their literacy and certain communication skills. Either way, the use of some type of map in a classroom is a great learning experience for all children.