Geocaching November09
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Geocaching: The sport where YOU are the search engine Bridget Belardi [email protected] blog.mtlsd.org/cybrary
description
Transcript of Geocaching November09
Geocaching:
The sport where YOUare the search engine
Bridget [email protected]
blog.mtlsd.org/cybrary
Breakdown of the PM
• 1:15-2:00 What is Geocaching?
• 2:00-2:30 Using GPS units
• 2:30-3:30 Special Assignment
• 3:30-4:00 Curriculum Integration
What is Geocaching?
• A high-tech treasure hunt
• Need a GPS
• Seek a cache based on latitude and longitude coordinates
• This is not just a teaching tool, it’s a lifetime activity.
GPS
• Global Positioning System• Approx: $100-$500 • Garmin and Magellanare the most popular• Can download cacheinfo into the receiver if itis properly equipped• iPhones• Groundspeak App $10
Garmin eTrex Venture-$169
How Does It Work?
• Using three satellites (trilateration), you should be able to determine your exact position.
• Some variables include:– Trees– Buildings– Atmospheric Interference, etc.
*A typical hand held receiver gets within 5-15 feet.
How do I find a cache?
• Build an account on – www.geocaching.com
Search by city, zip code, state, driving route, etc.
(I usually search by zip code--15017)
Record the latitude and longitude coordinates and read the hints!
Then what?
• Get as close to the location as you can.
• Insert the coordinates into the GPS.
• Follow the compass until it gets to 0-10 feet.
• Use your “geosense” to find the cache.
When you find the cache…
• Sign the log book
• Trade items—Take something, leave something
• Look for travel bugs and geocoins
• Be sure to put the cache back in the same place you found it with the appropriate amount of camouflage.
Extras
• Travel Bugs
Geocoins
• Collectable and tradable items
Some “lingo”
• Muggles: Those who are not geocachers. You must be careful to be stealthy around them!
• TFTC: Thanks for the Cache
• TFTF: Thanks for the Find
• TNLN: Took Nothing Left Nothing
“Survival” Guide
• Take a bag that includes– GPS– First Aid kit/bug spray– Pen/Pencil– Swag/Tradable items– Compass
Your Assignment
• Find a partner (You’ll have to take turns using the GPS)
• One person will need to drive
• Find caches
• BE BACK in 1 hour!!
Reflections on the Activity
• Positive Experiences?
• Challenges?
• Implications for students?
• Curriculum ties?
Educational Benefits
• Reading latitude and longitude
• Map skills
• Using a compass
• Can add a research component
• Cross-curricular connections
• Letterboxing Hybrid
Map Skills
• GIS (Geographic Information Software)
• Google Maps
Educaching
• http://www.educaching.com/
• Resource for lesson plans, how-to CD
• $32.00
• Also includes ideas for
grant writing
Google Earth and GPS
• Elementary and Secondary versions
• $34.95
• Lesson plans and blackline masters
Other Books For Your Library
Other Information
• Podcachers
• Geocaching List Serv (For teachers)
• PAECT list of resources —including GIS software
• Caching Teacher Blog
• **Dr. Christie’s Guide for Educators
Want to find out more?
www.geocaching.com : For all your geocaching needs
A site for beginners: http://www.factsfacts.com/geocacher.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geocaching
