Math and Map-making
Most teachers integrate some math concepts, such as scale, into the study of maps...
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Most teachers integrate some math concepts, such as scale, into the study of maps. Cynthia Lanius offers some imaginative applications of math in cartography. For instance, if students are circumnavigating the globe in 80 days with various vehicles, how many miles need to be covered each day? Suppose 3 evil dictators could be placed the farthest apart from each other on the globe; where would they live? She has included links about the history of cartography and the "best" Web sites in this field.
Another dilemma in the history of cartography and navigation focuses on identifying longitudes. Students are always amazed when the teacher asks them how to navigate on the ocean during the day when stars are not seen.
The Osher Map Library at the University of Southern Maine features exhibits series of maps over times such as World II, the role of the gas station. Each resource is accompanied by a lesson plan and supporting materials.
An interactive digital map at National Geographic narrate 21 significant moments during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.
Since the late 18thc. insurance companies have prepared city maps not only to detail building but also maintencance resources (water and gas mains. The Library of Congress holds more than 700,00 such maps. Meanwhile, regional depositories could be more relevant to your students.
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These particular applications may or may not be appropriate for the grade level you teach but they will surely spur your imagination towards getting the most integrated studies mileage from your study of maps.
