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Exploration and Discovery through Maps: Teaching Science with Technology
Citation:
Hartley, J. Exploration and Discovery through Maps: Teaching Science with Technology. NC Science Teachers' Association, Greensboro, NC, October 19 - 22, 2017.
Impact/Purpose:
To inform NC STEM educators about EnviroAtlas lesson plans
Description:
Online maps have the power to bring students closer to their local natural environments. EnviroAtlas is an interactive, web-based tool that was designed by the EPA and its partners to provide access to maps that show the status of the local environment and social elements of an area. EnviroAtlas is readily available, only requires an internet browser to use, and can be used by anyone with some introduction, which this session will provide. This session introduces a lesson-plan package that encourages students to explore their local watershed through a hands-on lab, an outdoor component, and an EnviroAtlas web-mapping session. The EnviroAtlas tool equips students with the skills necessary to navigate data in a technological and visual format. Students can use EnviroAtlas to explore maps and consider real-world connections to their local environment. This session will walk teachers through the lesson package and allow time for open-ended exploration of the EnviroAtlas tool. The lesson plan covers NGSS 4-ESS3-2, 4-ESS2-2, 5-ESS2-1 and 5-ESS3-1. This abstract has been reviewed and approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Agency.