As K-12 teachers, it is important to foster curiosity in our students about the world around them. One exciting topic for exploration is the size and scope of the cities they live in. With this in mind, we offer this guide to teaching students about the size of St. Louis and how it compares to other major cities.
Introducing St. Louis Geography
Begin by offering a brief overview of St. Louis’ geography. Discuss its location along the Mississippi River and touch on its history as a trading post and industrial center for early settlers. Emphasize that St. Louis boasts over 61 square miles and contains various neighborhoods, parks, and landmarks.
Comparing St. Louis to Other Cities
To grasp the size of St. Louis accurately, students may benefit from comparisons to other major cities. Display a map of various metropolises, such as New York City or Los Angeles, alongside one of St. Louis, allowing students to visualize differences in land mass more easily.
Incorporating Measurements
One effective way to teach size is by incorporating different units of measurement. Convert square miles into square kilometers or acres, allowing students to grasp the true scope more easily with various perspectives. Reinforce these concepts with interactive worksheets or group activities.
Exploring Landmarks’ Sizes
To further engage your students’ imaginations and progressively build their understanding of St. Louis’ scale, consider introducing some prominent local landmarks like the Gateway Arch or Busch Stadium. Provide dimensions and areas for these structures, facilitating student-led comparisons to other notable landmarks they may be familiar with, nationally or internationally.
Concluding Thoughts on City Size
In conclusion, remind your students that a city’s size is defined not only by its land area but also by its unique characteristics and important landmarks that contribute significantly to its identity. Encourage students to continually expand their knowledge, explore, and appreciate their city’s nuances as they grow up.
Teaching students about the size of St. Louis is a valuable opportunity to encourage curiosity and engage with geography on a local and global scale. Using comparisons, various measurements, and landmark dimensions, K-12 educators can generate dynamic learning experiences that hold their students’ interest and deepen their understanding of the world around them.
