Mapping Japan

Jump into Japan's geography with a 3-D topographic map! Students will proudly display these models of Japan's mountainous islands and bodies of water.

• 1.

  Research the islands of Japan. Find out where they are located in the world. Identify the largest four islands' shapes, names, and characteristics.

• 2.

  Use Crayola® Model Magic to create 3-dimensional scale models of Japan's islands. Show mountains, rivers, and lakes. Dry.

• 3.

  Paint the islands and their geographic features with Crayola Washable Paint and Paint Brushes. Dry.

• 4.

  Paint ocean waters surrounding the Japanese islands with Crayola Watercolors on a large sheet of paper. You may want to dampen your paper first to try a wet-on-wet technique. Dry.

• 5.

  Place your four islands on the water in their correct locations. Label the Sea of Japan, Pacific Ocean, and island names if you wish.

Benefits

• Students research the islands of Japan to learn their location in the world and the islands' characteristics.
• Students gain an understanding of map making and topography.
• Students construct a scale-model map of the Japanese islands and surrounding ocean.

Adaptations

• Create a topographical map of your state, province, or country to include the highest elevations, rivers, and other features.
• Research other island nations such as Great Britain and create a similar topographical map.
• Younger students and those with special needs might work in groups or with their families to research information and create their island models. You'll become a fan of Japan!