Journal #8 - Google Earth

Google Earth is a program that allows you access to a virtual globe. This is a great on-line resource to add more excitement and interest to assignments. You can fly from the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Great Wall of China in Beijing to the Pyramids of Giza and then back to the Grand Canyon in a matter of minutes. You also have an option of viewing The Sky and Mars which will expand students' opportunities for exploration. At each location, there are links to Wikipedia and other informational sites so you can learn and tour these places. Some tools that are available are measurement and GPS which will allow students to interact with Google Earth. Aside from the obvious geographical uses, there are also many cross-curriculum applications.

Literature Application - Students could follow along the Joads family journey to find new hope during the Great Depression in The Grapes of Wrath, by John Steinbeck or visit Venice, Italy after reading The Thief Lord, by Cornelia Funke. Visit http://www.googlelittrips.com for other ideas.

Math Application - Students can use the measurement tools to estimate distances from known landmarks in their area. They can also use the Path tool to measure indirect distances, for instance from their house to school. For other lesson plan ideas, visit http://realworldmath.org.

Science Application - Students can map the paths of tsunamis and hurricanes while studying weather patterns or take tours of different biomes of the world.

For more ideas on how to use Google Earth in cross-curriculum applications you can visit https://classroomgoogleearth.wikispaces.com.

I can see how Google Earth would be a great resource for adding dimension to different assignments. Not only would students enjoy the ability to virtually travel around the world, but I think having a broader view of the world can be a great learning tool for students of all ages.