Where in the world is the equator? Explore a world map with your class, coloring in oceans, continents, and rainforests while locating the three major lines of latitude: the equator, Tropic of Cancer, and Tropic of Capricorn. Discuss how the tropical belt is where the sun's energy is focused, allowing for the growth of rainforests. Most appropriate for third and fourth graders, use this as a great introduction to a unit on climates and biomes.

Concepts

biomes, climates, ecosystems, rainforests, world geography

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

lines of latitude, rainforests, world geography, world map activity, climates, biomes, ecosystems, science

Show More Show Less

Pros

• Includes an extension activity for demonstrating how the tilt of the earth causes seasonal change
• Offers differentiation ideas for older or advanced students
• Provided map includes lines of latitude and locations of tropical rainforests to support learners

Cons

• Teacher must develop more detailed instruction on the characteristics of rainforests

Common Core

SL.K.1.a SL.K.3 SL.1.1.a SL.1.1.c SL.1.3 SL.2.1.a SL.2.1.c SL.2.3 SL.3.1.a SL.3.1.b SL.3.3 SL.4.1.a SL.4.1.b SL.4.1.c