Do you know which countries make up the United Kingdom? Can you name three mountain ranges in Europe? There are some REALLY small countries in Europe. Can you name one? Can you identify any of thel transcontinental countries in Europe?
If you or your students need help with any of these questions, here’s a fun way to learn more. Our “Follow the Leader” game uses a map of the European continent to reinforce the “big picture” geography of Europe.
For this activity you will need:
- An outline map of Europe
- Follow the Leader game instructions
- A reference map of Europe, both political and physical
- Colored pencils or markers
Reference (political) map of Europe:
Physical map of Europe can be found in this resource or see Passport Pinterest Board for further ideas.
Outline map of Europe:
Here’s how our version of the game works: If you are using this game in a classroom setting, as the teacher, perform one of the instructions on a blank map and have students copy (or follow) your example. This can be performed on a blank paper map and shown to students, on an overhead, or on an iPad with a simple art app. There are 15 instructions available for this activity. You can adjust the difficulty level by choosing how many directions you will “follow” (less for younger students, more for older students). Also, the directions generally increase in difficulty as you move through the instructions.
Remember, per the instructions on the “Follow the Leader” Instruction Page above, you may also use this game as a reinforcement activity at a later date by using the rules to “Simon Says.” This is more challenging as students must remember both the geography, as well as be able to follow the instructions of the game.