Salt Dough Maps

Several elementary teachers have mentioned over the years that they have their students create salt dough maps of the state of Montana.  But now, thanks to Libby fourth grade teacher Bill Moe, I have pictures that walk you through how to make these.

First: Find a map showing Montana's major rivers and mountain ranges. Bill uses the one in his Regions of the US textbook. Then it is time to get to work.

Then make your salt dough. Bill got his recipe from Learning4Kids.

Ingredients

1 cup salt

2 cups of flour

¾ cup of water may need to add a little bit more for the right consistency

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl mix salt and flour together.
2. Gradually stir in water. Mix well until it forms a doughy consistency.
3. Turn the dough onto the bench and kneed with your hands until smooth and combined.

Store your salt dough in an airtight container or Ziploc bag as it keeps well for a few days.

Now to make the maps:

"First phase for Salt Dough Maps: these are all the lids off our copy paper boxes. I also cut the bottoms of the boxes as well, since we will be doing about 80 of these this year."

"Second Phase: Just shaping Montana and letting it dry."

"Final Map"

According to Bill, "Kids love this 3D, shaping project! They pinch up the mountains, use a pencil to carve rivers, thumbprints for Flathead and Fort Peck."  

I really appreciate Bill taking the time to send these descriptions and photos! Sharing what works is a huge benefit to everyone. If you have a project that has worked in your classroom, send it along so I can share it with the list.

P.S. We're conducting a drawing at MEA-MFT, but even if you weren't able to come to the conference, you can still participate in our contest. All you need to do is complete the Montana and the Great War Scavenger Hunt. Email me a photo or scan of your completed scavenger hunt by Monday, October 23, 11:00 p.m., and I will enter your name in our drawing.