Spacebase Atlas - a 4th Grade Program
SPACEBASE Atlas builds the foundations for spatial literacy for students, they build their own compass, learn to read maps and understand how they are created spatially. They come to understand a map is a visual representation of an area.
Each student receives a blue t-shirt and writes their 'call sign' on the t-shirt. They will be known by that 'call sign' for the five days they come to SPACEBASE Atlas.
Maps are used to explore the following spatial skills:
Direction
Students explore the cardinal directions on the compass rose. They investigate and compare the effect of
magnetic fields on compasses that they make themselves. Geographic Position System (GPS) units are introduced to students.
Projections and Distortion
Children are introduced to the dilemma of cartographers over the ages: How can the Earth's surface (a three dimensional surface)
be depicted as a flat surface on a map.
How a map is laid out (projection) and the compromises made (distortion) are explored. Hands-on modeling coupled with Geogrphic Information System (GIS) software modeling are used by the students to understand these concepts.
How a map is laid out (projection) and the compromises made (distortion) are explored. Hands-on modeling coupled with Geogrphic Information System (GIS) software modeling are used by the students to understand these concepts.
Spatial Skills - Distance and Scale
Measurements are taken on maps and converted to real distance on Earth's surface. Students will determine real and scaled distances
by performing hands on practical exercises as well as GIS (Geographic Information System) activities.
Spatial Skill - Navigation
The grid system is the methodology used for navigation on a map's surface.
Children use GIS (Geographic Information System) and GPS (Geographical Position System) to explore desktop and life-sized maps.
Hands-on exercises with both distance and direction instructions help the children understand why grids are so important.
Spatial Skill - Cartography
Students will use ArcView GIS* software to produce their own map of the local environment.
Creating the map integrates all the components the children have learned and enables them to experience the process.
