Most people use maps only to help them get to a destination by the shortest possible route, or for learning the geography of a place on a large scale. But maps are also powerful tools for understanding the characteristics that make every place on earth unique.

A Sense of Place map is a birds' eye view of a place showing its shape and context in relation to its surroundings. It is quite geographically accurate, although its purpose is not to navigate; rather, it is to tell the story of a place from the point of view of the mapmaker(s). A sense of place map depicts how its physical setting influences it. Elements of setting include geography, topography, geology (soils and bedrock), hydrology (lakes, streams, and groundwater), weather and climate, forms of life, and historical events both cultural and natural.

The Roger Tory Peterson Institute's Sense of Place Mapping Teacher Professional Development Seminar trains educators to use maps and mapping technology to create a program of teaching and learning that focuses on your own community. Teachers and students who create sense of place maps learn what makes their home place unique from natural and cultural history perspectives - and provide opportunities for the whole community to become more aware and appreciative of the place they inhabit.

RTPI staff will tailor a Sense of Place Professional Development Seminar to your special needs. Please contact RTPI's Director of Education for more information or to arrange for a seminar in your community or school at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 716-665-2473, ext. 228.