A collection of highly engaging learning modules on various topics within mapping skills. Covers map symbols, how to use four- and six-figure grid references, cardinal directions, distance, contour mapping, and drawing cross-sections....

An unfortunate spill of 92,000 rubber ducks into the ocean in 1992 elicited invaluable information about global ocean currents as scientists tracked their journeys around the world. In this lesson, students first learn about the Ocean...

Students learn how to identify the major features in a topographical map. They learn that maps come in a variety of forms: city maps, road maps, nautical maps, topographical maps, and many others. Map features reflect the intended use....

Students become scientists, and learn about the usef of seismic technology to map patterns of rock formations below the surface of the Earth.

Historically, sea floor mapping occurred with a more simple data collection method: soundings. Soundings are taken by dropping a weight with a pre-measured rope off the side of the boat and noting the measurement on the rope when the...

Maps are designed to allow people to travel to a new location without a guide to show the way. They tell us information about areas to which we may or may not have ever been. There are many types of maps available for both recreational...

This site is provided for by Harvard University. Students follow a map on a scavenger hunt, create a map of their classroom and their town, learn how to read topographic maps, and discover latitude and longitude in these inquiry activities.

In this lesson plan, teachers will guide the learners, as a group, through the process of writing a meaningful story using a story map. First the teacher will review the parts that make up a successful story. Then, the students will be...

A short biography of Vasco da Gama, along with a map activity that involves labeling the oceans, and the route he took around the tip of Africa to India.

In this activity, students will learn how to read a topographical map and how to triangulate with just a map. True triangulation requires both a map and compass, but to simplify the activity and make it possible indoors, the compass...

Students investigate maps and data to learn where and when hurricanes form and how climate change may be affecting them.

In this activity, students will use bearing measurements to triangulate and determine objects' locations. Working in teams of two or three, students must put on their investigative hats as they take bearing measurements to specified...

This learning module looks at human-made systems of energy, covering different types of energy and power stations. Includes handouts, slideshows, maps, activities, photographs, an interactive animation, and videos.

This learning module looks at droughts. It examines their characteristics and distribution, how they are measured, their causes, how they can be predicted, and their frequency in Africa. Includes handouts, maps, activities, and videos.

Here is an interactive & printable crossword puzzle developed by the New York Times Learning Network. The theme of this puzzle is Latitude & Longitude.

Interactive websites are designed to help you learn through simulations and interaction. Here you will be learning about interactive websites such as Google Maps and Quizlet through a series of three quests. Text sections are available...

This site provides information about Nisyros, a Greek island known as the "Bed of the Sleeping Giant." It features an island with few active volcanoes where one can walk on its craters. Learn more about Nisyros and locate it on the map.

[Archived Content] Interactive site where students can learn about navigation techniques through various learning activities.

In this activity, students will learn how to actually triangulate using a compass, topographical (topo) map and view of outside landmarks. It is best if a field trip to another location away from school is selected. The location should...

In this activity, students explore the importance of charts to navigation on bodies of water. Using one worksheet, students learn to read the major map features found on a real nautical chart. Using another worksheet, students draw their...

Students create their own anemometers which are instruments for measuring wind speed. They see how an anemometer measures wind speed by taking measurements at various school locations. They also learn about different types of...

Students familiarize themselves - through trial and error - with the basics of GPS receiver operation. They view a receiver's satellite visibility screen as they walk in various directions and monitor their progress on the receiver's...

Students design their own logo or picture and use a handheld GPS receiver to map it out. They write out a word or graphic on a field or playground, walk the path, and log GPS data. The results display their "art" on their GPS receiver...

Students embark on a scavenger hunt around the school looking for indoor air pollution and mapping source locations.