Curated OER
Making Topographic Maps and Mountain Profiles
Students study how to mark inclines and construct a mountain profile. In this topographic map instructional activity students mark contour intervals and draw mountain profiles.
Space Awareness
Valleys Deep and Mountains High
Sometimes the best view is from the farthest distance. Satellite imaging makes it possible to create altitude maps from far above the earth. A three-part activity has your young scientists play the role of the satellite and then use...
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Cross Section and Slope
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.
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Geologic cross section of Manhattan, NYC
Students draw an accurate geologic cross section by using a given data table. They relate the features of the cross section to geologic processes. Students then relate the characteristics of the bedrock to the architecture.
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Generate an Accurate Landscape Profile from a Topographic Map
Learners enerate an accurate landscape profile from a topographic map. They determine the correct interval needed to accurately graph the change in elevation on a single piece of graph paper.
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Production of the Lunar Relief Map Project
Students replicate the lunar surface. In this mapping skills lesson, students study the topography of the moon. Students then use craft materials to create topographic maps of the lunar surface where the Eagle landed.
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Creating a 3d Model and Corresponding Topographic Map
Students create a landform model and topographic map. In this topography lesson, students use a real landform to create a model and topographic map to scale.
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TOPSY TURVY MAPS
Eighth graders use the data analyzer and motion detector to collect data and measure distances. They create topographic maps drawn to scale of a given setup and relate the concepts to the creation of historical ocean maps.
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Comparing Topographical Maps to 3-Dimensional Models
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.
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Topographic Maps Worksheet
In this geography skills worksheet, students respond to 37 multi-part questions that require them to read and interpret topographic maps.
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What do Maps Show?
Seventh graders practice reading maps. In this geography lesson, 7th graders compare a topographical map to a picture of the actual place.
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Mapping and Topgraphy- 8th Grade
Eighth graders practice interpreting a contour map as well as reading latitude and longitude in a team activity. Following a discussion on mapping terms, teams are given maps and estimate the distance between two points. Students...
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The Geography of the United States
Full of bright maps and interesting information, this presentation details U.S. Geography. Slides include basic facts about size, regions, topography, and demographics, as well as fascinating trivia about the United States, including...
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Vocabulary for Dimensions of the Earth
In this Earth dimensions worksheet, students define 24 terms associated with contour maps, latitude, longitude, and time zones.
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Design an Island
Students explore islands. They create a two- or three-dimensional map of an island. They explain how the topography of an area influences the location of water sources, ecosystems, and human settlements. Lesson includes adaptations for...
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Planning A Railroad
Students use topographical maps students explain the challenges involved in building the railroad in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
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Topography: Know the topography of your neighborhood
Middle schoolers read and identify features on a topography map. For this topography lesson plan, students learn how to read a topography map, and then go out and take pictures of their own and discuss the topography pictures they took.
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Building A Topographic Model
Students visualize, in three dimensions, features represented by contour lines on a topographic map. They see that the different elevations shown on a two dimensional topographic map can be used to build a 3-D model.
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Watershed Delineation
Students use topographic maps to delineate a watershed.In this ecology lesson, students draw the boundaries of a watershed onto a map using contour lines as a guide. Their resulting maps are used to evaluate their understanding.
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Planning a Railroad Online Lesson
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...
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The Great Topo Race
Students 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 their...
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Mapping The Ocean Floor
Young scholars explore and analyze the bottom structure of underwater habitats. They describe and explain what can't see through the collection and correlation of accurate data. Learners assess that technology is utilized as a tool for...
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Climb Every Volcano
Students use a contour map to distinguish the elevation of a volcano. In this volcano lesson, students use styrofoam to create the contour of their map. Students glue and assemble their volcano. Students compare and contrast their...