After you have the application, the exploratory learning can begin. Many of us have used Google Earth to type in the address of our house to see an aerial view. However, did you know that you can do so much more?
Google Earth contains layers that allow you to explore in many ways. Google Earth has a Sky and a Mars layer. In addition, the newest version Earth 5.0, has some fun new layers including; historical imagery from around the globe, ocean floor and surface data from marine experts, and simplified touring with audio and voice recording. These new layers will add dimension to your lessons and help create a memorable connection with your learners.
The ocean floor layer is a unique way to discover the ocean. Your students can become deep sea divers as they dive beneath the surface of the ocean to visit the deepest portion of the ocean. Earth 5.0 will allow you to explore the ocean with top marine experts including National Geographic and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The applications for classroom use are possible lessons that include ocean observations, climate change, endangered species, and even ship wrecks. To activate the ocean layer view, select ocean under the layer section.
Another exciting feature of Google Earth is KML, or Keyhole Markup Language. This is a file format that is used for displaying and storing geographic features such as points, lines, paths, and images in Google Earth. You can use KML to share places and information with other users of the application. This is an example of a path created along the Grand Canyon. Each blue square can be clicked on to show an image of the Grand Canyon.
This is a picture that was displayed after clicking on a blue square.
You can find an interactive sample of KML files on Google’s site. I suggest downloading this file and using it to explore the different types of KML files.
Google Earth has many interactive tools. However, it is not necessary that you know each tool in detail to begin using it. A basic understanding will get you started with Google Earth. As you begin investigating Google Earth you will discover more ways to help you make connections via Google Earth.
Web Based Resources
There are a variety of web-based resources that highlight the multiple ways to use Google Earth while utilizing many of the new layers mentioned previously. I will highlight some of my favorite resources with the intended hope that it will allow you to explore more options that Google Earth has to offer.
Tom Barret created a google presentation titled: Twenty-Three Interesting Ways to Use Google Earth in the Classroom. This presentation is updated with ideas from educators and contains some great tips.
There are many video tutorials that will take you on a quick tour of what Google Earth can do. What’s New in Google Earth 5.0 is a short and informative video about the new features of Google Earth. This video will show you how to view historical images and record your own tour.
Google Lit Trips is a site that houses files related to pieces of literature. The purpose of using Google Earth is to help students visualize where characters lived or where events took place in a literary work. The site has a variety of downloadable files that are organized by grade level. Google Lit Trips is a great tool to help students connect with literature.
Blogs are a great way to remain current with information. I suggest subscribing to a blog devoted to Google Earth. I enjoy reading the The Google Earth Blog. They update their blog frequently with new ideas and news related to Google Earth.
About the Author: Sara Crawford has been a teacher at G. Frank Davidson School in the Cartwright School District for eight years. Most of her classroom experience has been in first grade and she will teach fifth grade in the upcoming school year. Sara is currently working towards her Doctorate in Educational Administration and Supervision through the DELTA program at Arizona State University. She has a blog about educational technology called Educational Snippets.
