Geocaching

Using GPS in the Classroom

By Susan Gotwals & Amy Mezni

Madison Middle School

The Global Positioning System (GPS), is currently the only fully-

functional satellite navigation system. More than two dozen GPS

satellites are in medium Earth orbit, transmitting signals allowing GPS

receivers to determine the receiver's location, speed and direction.

GPS units are navigational systems,

like

Handheld units are available in stores and on the internet. Leading brands include:

Basic GPS functions are simple to teach Students love using the technology!

What Can You Do With GPS?

Social Studies: Maps, Latitude & Longitude

Math: Geometry, Coordinate Grids Science: Satellite Technology

Language Arts: Oral & Written Communication

PE: Orienteering

Geocaching

Geocaching is a new sport that is catching on around the world.

It is easy to do and there are different levels of difficulty.

It is a great weekend activity for families.

Internet support www.geocaching.com

What is Geocaching Anyway?

People create small caches (boxes, containers) & hide them using GPS coordinates. You can log them online.

Some caches have themes, but it is not necessary

Caches include items inside for people to take or trade.

Logbooks are included so geocachers can sign in when they find the geocache.

Creating A Geocache

You need an airtight, waterproof container. Rubbermaid, Ammo Boxes No glass jars

Need to camouflage the geocache Colored duct tape from sporting goods supply Fake leaves, moss, twigs or other camouflage

Get permission if you are leaving a cache on someone else’s property.

Example

In our project, each class chose a theme: Science – animals

Math – puzzles

World Cultures - countries Students worked in pairs to create a

geocache based on their theme.

Each pair was required to provide: A list of clues about the theme. A list of clues about the hidden location Items in the box based on the theme.

Students hid the geocaches using handheld GPS units & provided each teacher with the coordinates.

Classes rotated hiding and finding the geocaches on school property.

Parent volunteers were used to help monitor student behavior.

Nuts and Bolts

Here are some things we used: Geocaching rubric Parent letter Parent Volunteer letter Resources for Activities:

Florida Ag in the Classroom

How Can I Afford GPS Units?

There are ways to get money! Brevard Mini-Grants Technology Monies There are even refurbished models available

online at various outlets. Internet surfing required.

Let’s use one