Abstract The central issue raised in this article relates to teachers' geographic literacy. One aspect of geographic literacy is an individual's knowledge of the world map as represented in a sketch map. This study represents a preliminary effort to assess the cognitive status of preservice social studies teachers' mental maps of the world. Using a Likert Scale to assess the students' sketch maps, a variety of tests were used to analyze the data gathered. In general, all students had problems constructing a mental map of the world. The article concludes with suggestions on ways to improve the mental maps of teachers and students.