OVERVIEW

Activity Overview:

This lesson introduces Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to students. We explore ways in which GIS impacts our communities and our world as well as ways in which it solves problems and affects decision making. Students will understand domain-specific GIS vocabulary and use ArcGIS software to create a web map that answers a research question.

Meta description

• Subject Area: Computer Science, Social Studies, Reading/Language Arts, Technology
• Grade Level : 6-8
• Computer Science Domains:
  • Computing Systems, Data Analysis, Impacts of Computing
• Computer Science Principles:
  • Collaborating Around Computing, Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems, Creating Computational Artifacts
• Materials:
  • Website, Laptops and possible ArcGIS software
• Considerations:
  • Having more than one adult in the room will be very beneficial for trouble-shooting and differentiation. Educators should create multiple maps and make note of obstacles before implementing the lesson. ArcGIS provides free educational licenses upon request.

Lesson Plan

Overview

This lesson introduces Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to students. We explore ways in which GIS impacts our communities and our world as well as ways in which it solves problems and affects decision making. Students will understand domain-specific GIS vocabulary and use ArcGIS software to create a web map that answers a research question.

ASSESSMENT PRE/POST-TEST

What is GIS? What is a Geographic Information System? How does GIS impact our world? How can GIS be used to solve problems? How can GIS affect decision making?

Within ArcGIS: What is a layer? What is a feature? What is symbology?. (Not finished)

OBJECTIVES

Students will be able to: Describe Geographic Information Systems and how they impact our world Define terminology used to make maps with ArcGIS Use ArcGIS software to create a web map that answers a research question Write a reflection about the process and present findings

CATCH/HOOK

Students take a walk around the perimeter of the school grounds and then work independently or with a partner to draw a mental map of the grounds and building. Students can volunteer to share their work and the group will participate in a gallery walk.

ACTIVITY INSTRUCTIONS

Hook: Walk outside, create a mental map of the school, participate in a gallery walk Pre-test Introduce objectives and answer questions Show introductory video and present GIS introduction slides (direct instruction) Present maps that change the world website and discuss impacts Provide 10-15 minutes to explore ArcGIS, student gallery and/or ESRI newsletters Discuss impacts, problem-solving and decision-making (note-taking optional) Guided tour of ArcGIS including layers, features, symbols etc. with a printed guide with definitions Lead students through a geoinquiry about American Indian lands in the United States Analyze the American Indian lands map and identify map elements in small groups Discuss the research question from the geoinquiry and make observations Students analyze base maps and layers and develop research questions Students create a web map designed to answer their research question(s) Present maps Take post-test Write a reflection

Supplements

Any items in this section are the property & under the license of their respective owners.

REVIEW

Access to slideshow Partner quizzing of vocabulary terms Peer review and feedback for maps before the presentation

STANDARDS