Geocaching:

The sport where YOUare the search engine

Bridget Belardibridgetbelardi@gmail.com

blog.mtlsd.org/cybrary

What is Geocaching?

• A high-tech treasure hunt• Need a GPS• Seek a cache based on latitude and

longitude coordinates • This is not just a teaching tool, it’s a

lifetime activity.

GPS

• Global Positioning System• Approx: $100-$500 • Garmin and Magellanare the most popular• Can download cacheinfo into the receiver if itis properly equipped• iPhones• Groundspeak App $10

Garmin eTrex Venture-$169

How Does It Work?

• Using three satellites (trilateration), you should be able to determine your exact position.

• Some variables include:– Trees– Buildings– Atmospheric Interference, etc.

*A typical hand held receiver gets within 5-15 feet.

What am I looking for?

How do I find a cache?

• Build an account on – www.geocaching.com

Search by city, zip code, state, driving route, etc.

(I usually search by zip code--15017)

Record the latitude and longitude coordinates and read the hints!

77

88

99

1010

Then what?

• Get as close to the location as you can.• Insert the coordinates into the GPS. • Follow the compass until it gets to 0-10

feet. • Use your “geosense” to find the cache.

When you find the cache…

• Sign the log book • Trade items—Take something, leave

something• Look for travel bugs and geocoins• Be sure to put the cache back in the same

place you found it with the appropriate amount of camouflage.

Extras

• Travel Bugs

Geocoins

• Collectable and tradable items

Some “lingo”

• Muggles: Those who are not geocachers. You must be careful to be stealthy around them!

• TFTC: Thanks for the Cache• TFTF: Thanks for the Find• TNLN: Took Nothing Left Nothing

“Survival” Guide

• Take a bag that includes– GPS– First Aid kit/bug spray– Pen/Pencil– Swag/Tradable items– Compass

Educational Benefits

• Reading latitude and longitude• Map skills• Using a compass• Can add a research component• Cross-curricular connections• Letterboxing Hybrid

Map Skills

• GIS (Geographic Information Software)• Google Maps

Educaching

• http://www.educaching.com/ • Resource for lesson plans, how-to CD• $32.00• Also includes ideas for

grant writing

Google Earth and GPS

• Elementary and Secondary versions• $34.95• Lesson plans and blackline masters

Other Books For Your Library

Other Information

• Podcachers• Geocaching List Serv (For teachers)• PAECT list of resources —including GIS

software• Caching Teacher Blog• **Dr. Christie’s Guide for Educators

Want to find out more?

www.geocaching.com : For all your geocaching needs

A site for beginners: http://www.factsfacts.com/geocacher.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geocaching

Bridget Belardi

bbelardi@mtlsd.net

blog.mtlsd.org/cybrary