Cartography

Militaries throughout history have used topography information to plan strategies, yet many pupils today don't understand it. Scholars use Legos and a contour gauge to understand how to construct and visualize topographic profiles. This...

Students explore outdoors. In this mapping techniques lesson, students map out an outdoor area that they have examined. They work in small groups to come up with the symbols and draw the map. This lesson includes an example of a finished...

Young scholars investigate weather maps. In this weather lesson, students discover the meaning of different weather icons and symbols. Working independently, young scholars use the local forecast to correctly label a state map.

In this map making worksheet, students learn about the science of making maps, which is cartography. They then answer the 11 questions on the worksheet. The answers are on the last page.

Students are introduced to the key concepts of maps; direction, pathway/line, shape and symbol. They create the pathways and shapes they have "mapped" out on paper on the floor. They dance along the paths.

Young scholars 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.

Students participate in a simulation of life on a deserted island. They work with their group to develop an island survival plan and summarize it in a journal. Students use a worksheet and challenge cards to earn points. They will be...

Here is a clever way to get your pupils thinking about a science topic they'd like to research for a report, or a project they'd like to do for a science fair. The three-step process is easy to follow, and it really should help your...

What caused the collapse of the environment on Rapa Nui (Easter Island)? Who constructed the Moai? What was their purpose? Class members assume the role of investigators and use evidence drawn from field studies, ships' logs, and...

Students explore geography by creating a poster presentation in class. In this mapping lesson, students identify the different components featured on a modern day map and how to utilize them in order to navigate. Students read a book...