Where’s My Phone

Where's my phone

Using GPS to Learn About Location on the Earth’s Surface

by Tim Norris and Will Federman

Students learn how to use latitude and longitude to describe location on the Earth’s surface. Students also learn how Global Positioning Systems (GPS) function and how we can use everyday technology (for example, smart phones) to find latitude and longitude. Two concepts are introduced: 1) Properties of electromagnetic waves (the speed of light and the relationship between distance, velocity and time), and 2) Geometric concept of triangulation. Students map the point locations of an object of interest (for example trees, benches, etc.) and then view the results of their mapping as displayed in a web page and in Google Earth®. They also learn how to place their maps into a word processing (Microsoft Word®) document.

Docs: fulltext.docx   lecture.pdf   activity.docx   notes.docx   help.docx
Keywords: communication, distance, HS-ESS2.B, GPS, investigations, latitude, longitude, mapping, math, HS-PS4.C, scale, time, velocity

Environmental Science from Space

environmental science from space

Remote Sensing and the Electromagnetic Spectrum

by Kristin McCully and Jack Horner

Students learn what remote sensing is, how it works, and how scientists use it, with a focus on Landsat satellite and imagery. They create, and then interpret, a remote sensing image of a planet and remote sensing imagery available on the Internet. Students review the structure of a wave; solve problems using speed, wavelength, and frequency; and discuss the uses of each type of radiation in the electromagnetic spectrum. Finally, students examine and analyze a remote sensing image of a rain forest.

Docs: fulltext.pdf   presentation.pdf   handout.doc   handoutkey.doc
Keywords: data, electromagnetic spectrum, HS-ESS2.D, HS-ETS1.A, explanations, iimagery, models, HS-PS4.A, HS-PS4.B, HS-PS4.C, rain forest, remote sensing, scale, systems

Energy for Change

energy for changeGreen Energy Audit

by Jennie Liss Ohayon and Dan Johnston

Students and teachers can use parts or all of our step-by-step workbook to conduct an energy audit of their school. The whole module is designed to strengthen students’ understanding of concepts in physics such as power and energy by making real-world connections, and by using appropriate technology to inquire into their own environment (particularly the lighting systems of their school). They calculate potential energy savings from both behavioral (e.g., turning lights off) and operational (e.g., retrofits) measures. Finally, students synthesize their data and develop specific recommendations for administrators or the public.

Docs: Fulltext.pdf   Workbook.pdf
Keywords: data, energy, energy savings, explanations, green energy, investigations, math, power, HS-PS3.A, HS-PS4.C, questions