6.Getting lost, maps

Q1 Why do some people get lost more easily than others?

Ans- I guess the main reason is that some people just have a poor sense of direction. You can explain the way to them a few times, but they will still struggle to remember which turn to take. I think it's just something natural, like some people are good at maths and others are not. Another reason is that not everyone pays attention to details like street names or landmarks. For instance, I usually remember a cafe or a shop on the corner, but my friend notices nothing and later has no idea where to go. When you don't train yourself to look around, it's very easy to get lost. And I would also say that if someone relies too much on their phone, they may not remember routes at all. Without GPS, they feel completely helpless, because they never practise using their memory.

Q2 Do you think it is important to be able to read a map?

Ans- Yes, I think it's still important to be able to read a map. Reading a map helps people when technology fails, and that happens more often than we think. For example, if a person's phone battery dies or they lose internet connection, a paper map can save them. Maps also give a bigger picture than a small phone screen, so people can understand the whole area at once instead of just one street. This makes people more independent and confident when travelling, because they don't have to rely on anyone else. Besides, learning to read maps trains people's memory and orientation skills, which are useful in many situations. In emergencies, a map can be the only way to find the route, so it's a basic skill everyone should have. That's why I'd say yes, it's still important.

Q3 How can people find their way when they are lost?

Ans- When people find themselves lost, there are a few strategies they can use to find their way. One option is to rely on navigation apps or GPS devices, which can provide accurate directions and maps. However, it's important to note that these devices may not always be available or functional, especially if their batteries have died. In such situations, people can employ a different approach and find their way by looking for prominent and easily recognizable features in their surroundings. These features could include natural landmarks like mountains, rivers, or distinctively shaped trees, as well as man-made landmarks such as buildings or monuments. If a person manages to identify these prominent landmarks, they can get a better understanding of their current location and the direction they need to go in order to find a familiar area or a known point of reference. For example, if someone is lost in a forest and they spot a tall mountain in the distance, they can use it as a point of orientation. They can remember the general direction in which the mountain is located and use it as a visual guide to navigate towards a more familiar area or to follow a known trail that leads them back to civilization. Similarly, if they see a unique building or monument, they can use it as a reference point and try to navigate towards it. And, of course, if people come across other individuals in the area, they should ask for help and directions.

Q4 Do you think that children should be taught to read paper maps at school?

Q5 Are paper maps still necessary?

Ans- Well, no doubt, they should as, first of all, paper maps can help kids understand distance as well as orient them within their own neighbourhood giving them skills to find their way home independently. Though, by learning how to read paper maps, children are doing much more than just learning how to get around. They are developing fundamental skills that they will use for the rest of their lives. For example, map skills help kids develop spatial thinking, I mean learn to visualise and interpret data. What is more, map skills help the young to recognise symbols, for example, traffic signs. Also, I can't help but notice that they are absolutely necessary for emergencies as they can get kids out of a mess without requiring a smartphone. Well, and in fact, they spark 'big picture' thinking, showing children that there is a much bigger world out there and helping to orient them within it.

Q6 How do people react when they get lost?

Q7 Do you think it's important to do some preparation before you travel to new places?

Ans- When people get lost, their reactions can be quite diverse and depend on a variety of factors. For instance, a person's personality, the situation they're in, and the environment around them can all influence how they react. Some people may panic and act impulsively, which can be dangerous if they're in an unfamiliar or unsafe area. Others may deny that they're lost and refuse to accept the reality of their situation. This can prevent them from taking necessary actions to get help or find their way back. On the other hand, some people may respond with determination and problem-solving skills. They may focus on using their resources and wits to navigate their surroundings and find their way back. Similarly, others may use their survival skills and knowledge of the environment to create shelter or find food and water. However, getting lost can also trigger negative emotions such as frustration, anxiety, and apathy. Some people may become incredibly frustrated, especially if they're running late or have important things to do. Others may experience anxiety, which can cause physical symptoms like sweating, shortness of breath, and rapid heartbeat. Finally, some people may become apathetic and give up trying to find their way back. This can be dangerous, especially if they're exposed to the elements, exhausted, or dehydrated.