Science and Math

Discussing how GPS works includes a discussion fo the great circles around the Earth. In addition, the idea of triangulation or how if there is a fourth circle, the elevation can be figured... See More

Discussing how GPS works includes a discussion fo the great circles around the Earth. In addition, the idea of triangulation or how if there is a fourth circle, the elevation can be figured. Great for an integrating activity of disciplines.

A Fresh Approach to Geospatial Reasoning

This is a very interesting approach to teaching geospatial reasoning. In this cross-curricular exercise students use handheld GPS units to find an identify simple machines around their camp... See More

This is a very interesting approach to teaching geospatial reasoning. In this cross-curricular exercise students use handheld GPS units to find an identify simple machines around their campus. This intriguing exercise, students learn about geography, physical science, and technology as they use GPSes, google Earth, and identify simple machines like hinges, bicycles, etc. This exercise could be expanded to include information on the geosyncronous orbit of the GPS satellites. The student reproducible sheets required to complete the lesson are included with the article. One negative I see with this lesson is the cost of purchasing the GPS units. However, there are grants available to help fund programs like this. This article presents an excellent hands-on activity that will definitely engage students.

A Fresh Approach to Geospatial Reasoning

This is a very interesting approach to teaching geospatial reasoning. In this cross-curricular exercise students use handheld GPS units to find an identify simple machines around their camp... See More

This is a very interesting approach to teaching geospatial reasoning. In this cross-curricular exercise students use handheld GPS units to find an identify simple machines around their campus. This intriguing exercise, students learn about geography, physical science, and technology as they use GPSes, google Earth, and identify simple machines like hinges, bicycles, etc. This exercise could be expanded to include information on the geosyncronous orbit of the GPS satellites. The student reproducible sheets required to complete the lesson are included with the article. One negative I see with this lesson is the cost of purchasing the GPS units. However, there are grants available to help fund programs like this. This article presents an excellent hands-on activity that will definitely engage students.

Using GPS to develop geospatial skills

To help students improve their spatial thinking, they used GPS units to locate, identify, and describe the location of objects on their campus. They then imported the GPS points into a file... See More

To help students improve their spatial thinking, they used GPS units to locate, identify, and describe the location of objects on their campus. They then imported the GPS points into a file that was viewed in Google Earth so they could see an aerial view. Teacher preparation and activity guidelines are included. Extension ideas are also given.

Cost can be an issue.

The use of this resource could be wonderful in an elementary classroom. However, the costs associated with it, according to the suggested instructions, could be more than what the teacher ha... See More

The use of this resource could be wonderful in an elementary classroom. However, the costs associated with it, according to the suggested instructions, could be more than what the teacher has access to for such a project. Aside from the cost, this would be a very exciting and engaging learning experience. I hope to be able to use such lessons in my future classrooms.

Integration of spatial concepts and mapping

This article presents a great way to integrate a personal spatial understanding with a representational understanding with an activity that most students will find engaging. By creating a ga... See More

This article presents a great way to integrate a personal spatial understanding with a representational understanding with an activity that most students will find engaging. By creating a game (a scavenger hunt) and integrating technology, students have an opportunity to do significant hands-on learning. That learning is used to understand the map representation of the area by using Google maps. This allows students to become part of the aerial view. I have used a similar exercise with students, and have found that most have thoroughly enjoyed it, at the same time they gained confidence in their ability to use and understand the tools.