MODULE 1 Chapter 2

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Module 1 Chapter 2

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Make a 3D Idaho Map

Hi Students!

The purpose of this activity is to help you learn about the size and shape of our state. You will make your own 3D map of Idaho! Not only is this fun, it is a good way to learn about our state.

A 3D map makes Idaho's land surface much more interesting. The word "3D" means 3-dimensional. The three dimensions are length, width, and height. Your desk, your car, and your home each have length, width, and height. The same is true for mountains, plateaus, river valleys---the whole state of Idaho!

A 3D map is not just a flat map; its surface is raised and uneven, just like the earth's surface. It has mountains, lakes, rivers, valleys---you name it! With a 3D map, you can see valleys, rivers, mountain ranges, lakes, and plateaus at a glance. Wouldn't it be fun to see how Idaho's land really looks?

You can make a 3D map out of modeling clay or play-dough. Following are directions for making a 3D map. At the end of these directions, you will find recipes for making your own play-dough.

HOW TO MAKE A 3D MAP WITH MODELING CLAY OR PLAY-DOUGH

You will need:

1. An Idaho map to study as a pattern.
2. A piece of heavy cardboard for making the back or base of the map.
3. Modeling clay or materials for making the dough.
4. A container for mixing the dough.
5. Tempera paints in assorted colors.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR MAP

1. Draw or trace the outline of Idaho on the piece of cardboard. Then draw in the rivers, valleys, lakes, mountains, and plateaus.

2. Use modeling clay or dough to build up the geographic features of the map. Keep referring to the printed Idaho map to serve as a guide. Remember, Mount Borah will be the highest point on your map. Lewiston will the lowest point.

3. If you use dough, let the dough map dry overnight. It must be thoroughly dry before it can be painted. Modeling clay doesn't have to dry, so it can be painted as soon as the map is finished.

4. Paint the features of your map with tempera paint. The mountains should be green and the water blue. You can choose other colors for other features on the map. Be sure to mark
the spot on the map where your school is located.

HOW TO MAKE PLAY-DOUGH

Here are two simple recipes, and you can choose the one you want to use.

A. Flour-Salt Dough

3 parts flour
1 part salt
1 part water

Mix the 3 ingredients, then knead until it reaches a workable consistency. Try for a putty-like consistency, but not too dry to be smoothed into land forms. (You should experiment with this before trying it with the map.)

Some people like to add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil per cup of flour to make the mixture more elastic.

B. Cornstarch Dough

1 part cornstarch
3 parts salt
1 part water

Mix the salt and water, then heat for a few minutes. When warm, stir in the cornstarch slowly and mix it well. Knead the dough until it reaches the desired consistency. Add more water if the dough is too stiff.

Some people prefer this dough because (they say) it dries without cracking.

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