GOOGLE EARTH
When trying to decide which Internet Educational Product (IEP) to use. I chose Google Earth. This Internet program is one of the few that allow the science standards to be addressed when trying to incorporate the use into a lesson plan.
SCIENCE STANDARDS
D-1 Concepts of Earth Science
The Student demonstrates an understanding of geochemical cycles by
SD.1 Describing the rock cycle and its relationship to igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks
SD.2 Explaining the water cycle's connection to changes in the Earth's surface
The student demonstrates an understanding of the forces that shape Earth by
SD2.2 Describing how the movement of the tectonic plates results in both slow changes ( e.g. formation of mountains, ocean floors, and basins) and short term events (e.g. volcanic eruptions, seismic waves, and earthquakes) on the surface
TECHNOLOGY STANDARDS
Technology Standards: C. A student should be able to use technology to explore ideas, solve problems, and derive meaning. A student who meets the content standards should use technology to observe, analyze, interpret, and draw conclusions; create new knowledge by evaluating, combining, or extending information using multiple technologies.
PLATE TECTONICS
This lesson for google earth was perfect for the plate tectonic unit. It took awhile for me to figure out how to navigate through Google Earth. After the first time it was fairly easy. Having the students actually find the different types of features created by plate tectonics allows them to discover how features were made on their own. Giving not only an enjoyable task but a fun one as well because of the technology available through Google Earth. Google Earth is unbelievable is some areas. Here in Alaska the viewing cameras are a little more limited but features can still be found.
Lesson One - Exploring Google Earth
Lesson Two - Capabilities of GPS
Lesson Three - Locating Specific Geographic Features
Lesson Four - Features Created by Plate Boundaries
Lesson Five - Land Features Scavenger Hunt
PROOF OF LEARNING
The first go round in teaching with Google Earth. Trying to keep the children on the correct areas they were suppose to be explore was difficult. All students found the geological features they needed. Students also spend a fair amount of times trying to find either their house or their friends. I think next time when incorporating a lesson I will spend more time on allowing the students to explore on their own. Then they will be more on task when asked to complete the work at hand.
