The Wisconsin Watershed Connection sponsors this Web site that explains and illustrates classroom use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems), a technology system that analyzes spatial data on the planet. Using this technology, students can arrange and display data about their classroom on a map. Background information about GIS and leveled suggestions for classroom use are included at this site.
What to Do
Tell children that maps show us where things are located.
Ask children to name different kinds of maps. Then show them the two samples of classroom maps.
Explain the color key to students and ask children questions about the map.
You may wish to work with the class to make a simple map of their classroom.
Funschool.com is part of the Kaboose network. The site provides interactive games aiming to teach children.
Lesson Objectives
Students will use the Internet to learn about maps.
Students will identify oceans and continents.
Suggested Additional Activities
Have students switch partners and play the game again. This time make it a competition. Have students take turns keeping score on how many continents and oceans they correctly identify.
Have students find a printout of a world map. Have students label and color the oceans and continents.
