GPS, GIS, and Place-based Learning

Get students up and moving. Connect physical, virtual, and relevant activities. Connect globes, satellite images, and relevant topics.

Watch Google Street View Trekker. Also check out Street View's Gallery.

Use databases and quality online resources. For instance, SIRS Discoverer has great maps on Madagascar and Greenland that will then lead you to articles.

Begin an exploration of Earth with a guided experience. Earth from Space explores specific locations around the world in five categories: living planet, water & air, structure of land, the human presence, and satellite technology.

Or, explore interactive maps focusing on particular features such as This Dynamic Planet and Mapping Life. Try other resources for data associated with place.

• BetterWorldFlux.
• Data360.
• DebateGraphic.
• Gapminder.
• Public Data Explorer.
• Regional Explorer.
• World Bank Data.
• Worldmapper.

Use Google Maps to create your own placemark, description, and URL to share.

Maps

• National Geographic Mapmaker. Use this interactive tool to generate questions.
• National Geographic Mapmaker 1-Page Maps. This tool allows users to make their own map.
• National Geographic Geo MapMaker Kits. Print out mega-sized maps for tables and walls.

Integrate maps and satellite images into the classroom with website like GoogleLit Trips. Learn more at Let's Go! Google Earth & GIS Resources.

Try It!
Use Google Maps.
Tell a place-based story involving either fiction or nonfiction elements.
Plan a local history or nature trail. Mark the locations with GPS and find them in Google Maps or Google Earth.