Learners review various contour maps, including local ones, to identify landforms such as mountains and plains. They create a 3-D contour map of an imaginary location that shows at least 10 changes in elevation. Afterward, they write a...

Students experiment with water levels and plastic topographic volcano models to determine the contour lines that would be used to create a topograpohic map of a volcano. They use the traced lines to actually develop the map.

Students examine the built environment and infrastructures of their community by constructing contour equipment, using the equipment, and comparing their results to current topographical maps of the same area

Young scholars examine topographical maps and the challenges faced by cartographers when drawing the maps. While creating collages, they use contour lines to add dimension much in the same way they are used on maps to show elevation.

Students use topographic map skills to interpret impact of the May 18, 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens on the volcano's topography, and draw profile views of Mount St. Helens before and after the May 18, 1980, eruption.

Underclassmen create a cone-shaped landform and then draw a contour map for it. Then they examine a quadrangle (which was easily located with an online search), and relate it to what they experienced. The accompanying worksheet is...

Fourth graders study topography maps and learn the importance of their contour lines.  In this map instructional activity students create their own topography map. 

Students explore watersheds through the use of a topographic map. They observe topographical maps and discuss their characteristics. In groups, students create a model clay island and make a topographical map of it. Afterward, groups...

Pupils discuss different types of maps, their similarities and differences. Using a Topographical Maps CD-rom program students create their own map.

Students replicate the lunar surface. In this mapping skills lesson plan, students study the topography of the moon. Students then use craft materials to create topographic maps of the lunar surface where the Eagle landed.

Students access the Internet and use real time data from the American Meteorological Society to create a detailed weather map. They make weather predictions based on the data collected.

Tenth graders test usefulness of a model Earth by comparing its predictions to observations in the real world.  In this landforms lesson students construct an island from a contour map using model clay then analyze the landscape...

Students draw cross sections of given contour maps. In this math lesson, students interpret the different symbols used in the map. They determine slope and steepness through direct measurement.

Young scholars view a number of self portraits to determine the importance of pose, setting, clothing, and props in a piece of artwork. They design a self-portrait emphasizing the use of contour lines.

Students create their own topographical map using a potato. In this hands on lesson plan students construct a topographical map and explain what contour lines are using a potato.

Students use topographical maps students explain the challenges involved in building the railroad in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Students apply knowledge of topographical maps and how computer programs are used to make 3-D models of areas that humans have never visited. They view a Mars Canyon movie, then map the canyon.

Students identify different types of maps and observe a geological map.  For this geology lesson students create a replica map of a geological area that includes a key. 

Students practice observation techniques to improve their drawing skills. For this drawing technique lesson, students assess drawing as an art media and discuss realism. Students view examples of animal drawings and practice drawing...

Students design a train route using a topographical map. In this historical and spatial thinking lesson plan, students must plan a route through the Sierra Nevada mountains that a train could physically travel. Links to printable student...

Young scholars create a three dimensional island out of cardboard to examine how to read and use a topographical map. They make sure that their island can sustain life and that it has one volcanic mountain peak. They trace the parts of...

Students explore the features of a topographic map. They make paper models that portray, in three-dimensions, features represented by contour lines on a topographic map. Students demonstrate different elevations shown on a...

Learners use a contour map to distinguish the elevation of a volcano.  In this volcano lesson plan, students use styrofoam to create the contour of their map.  Learners glue and assemble their volcano.   Students...

Students plan a route across Donner Summit using topographical maps in order to understand the challenges involved in constructing the railroad in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. In this history lesson, students first discover how to read...