Istorijska karta kao ilustracija i/ili izvor znanja u udžbenicima za prirodu i društvo

Visual representation is one of the key structural elements of a textbook. A historical map is a graphic representation of the geographical area where historical events took place at a certain time. The subject of this research is the analysis of the use of a historical map in the Science and Social Studies textbooks for the fourth grade of primary school. In this paper, we have analyzed whether these textbooks contain historical maps, their number, whether they are titled, whether there are additional explanations or legends, and to what extent a historical map is referred to by the accounts in the text of the textbooks, on the basis of which students should, by independently interpreting, analyzing and reading the map, come to certain conclusions and knowledge. The method used is the content analysis method. The analysis indicates that all five textbooks contain historical maps, although they are not explicitly mentioned as a term in teaching and learning programs. Historical maps should enable students to acquire more permanent knowledge through independent work and map reading as well as develop new concepts with regard to historical content. Studying the use of historical maps in the Science and Social Studies textbooks is important for improving the teaching process.