Maps

I did not know much about Google Maps until tonight...I like how you are able to get directions and see an actual "map" on Google Maps. I usually use MapQuest when searching for a specific location or directions, so, seeing another option is nice. I like how there are "written" directions in words AND and actual map. I have noticed when traveling personally, I often can follow a "picture" map much easier than the printed directions. Also, I think students need to be able to read a map. With so many GPS navigation systems available today, it would be easy for a student to not learn the correct way to "navigate" around a paper map, to know the direction of northwest, southeast or the symbol for interstate or highway.

The Google Treks is a nice option for teachers. I like how it is divided into specific age groups and specific, organized subject matter. I also think it is helpful that Google Treks offer rubrics to guide the scoring and evaluation. I think this would be a great site for Social Studies especially if you are studying places in the US or even abroad.

I also looked at the How Do WE Rock Around the Clock? lesson plan. I have never thought about how do rocks and minerals affect our lives from the minute we awake until we close our eyes at the end of the day, so, I like how this lesson plan allows students to discover how important rocks and minerals are in everyday lives. For example, what is used to make concrete? What rock materials were needed to build my school? I like how this lesson plan is interactive and able to pull students from various parts of the US to interact and answer questions pertaining to rocks and minerals. I also like how the map is integrated into the lesson by marking or "keying" particular sites where the answer to the question may be found. Perhaps the student in Scottsdale, Arizona enjoys learning about the textile shop in Wilmington, NC...this is a very good interactive tool to learn about rock and mineral usages in different regions of the US.