Curated OER
Assessing and Making Maps
Students evaluate maps using the TODALSIGs basic map analysis system, explained on the worksheet. They create a map of Alaska using TODALSIGs. Students brainstorm the elements of maps.
Curated OER
The Treasure Map
Third graders problem solve using drawings and map interpretations. They preview graphs and Cartesian geometry. They follow directions on a map using a grid and compass references while simulating they are reading a pirate map.
Curated OER
Reading Contour Maps
Students examine contour maps and bathymetry maps and discover how to interpret a contour map of the East Pacific Rise. Students look at a map as a class and answer questions together before working independently on a map of the East...
Curated OER
4-figure Grid Reference
Fourth graders study maps and grid lines. In this weather map activity students complete an activity that allows them to understand grid lines on a map.
California Academy of Science
Earthquakes and Tectonic Plates
Here is a comprehensive package in which middle schoolers learn about types of seismic waves, triangulation, and tectonic plate boundaries. Complete vocabulary, colorful maps, and a worksheet are included via links on the webpage. You...
Curated OER
A STEP IN SPECIATION
Students place different subspecies of a CA salamander are placed on grid map of CA according to where samples were collected. Then discuss patterns of their distribution, their likely evolutionary relationships, and probable sequence of...
Curated OER
Where is it?
Students use a coordinate grid. They investigate and discuss what caused certain objects to be in specific places. They choose a room in their home to map and place objects in specific locations.
Curated OER
Red October
Fourth graders follow directions given in bearings. They invent their own maps using them and use a protractor to help them with their designs. Students
produce their own maps with instructions for navigating the maps. The channels...
Curated OER
Longitude & Latitude
Seventh graders role play as ship's captains to study longitude and latitude.
Curated OER
Cherishing the Water of Life
Learners work in small groups to brainstorm a list of all creatures, plants, natural, and artificial processes that use or depend on fresh water. The class views an aquarium filled with water representing all the water in the world. The...
Curated OER
X Marks the Spot
Fourth graders use games and puzzles to explore co-ordinate systems and their uses. Students are given the opportunity to invent their own systems by locating counters on a sheet of paper and by finding the dead center of a set of objects.