Inspiring Inquiring Minds: Using GPS in the Classroom.

Inspiring Inquiring

Minds: Using GPS in the Classroom

• GPS is funded by US Department of Defense (DOD).

• GPS stands for Global Positioning System

What is GPS?

What is GPS?

• The first GPS satellite was launched in 1978.

• The launch of the 24th satellite in 1994 completed the system.

What is GPS?• The GPS Constellation consists of 24

satellites that orbit the earth in 12 hours.

• GPS receivers, receiving several satellites at the same time, can compute position, speed and time estimates.

How is the GPS used?

• MilitaryNursing• Forestry Emergency

services• Biology Police• Fishing Automobiles• Hunting Ships• BoatingAircrafts• Racing

• A GPS device receives signals from satellites orbiting the earth

• Examples:• Real Time Satellite Tracking

• Google Earth

How does GPS work?

Real Time Satellite TrackingHancock Creek Elementary SchoolBayshore ElementaryHector A. Cafferata Elementary School

What is Geocaching?

• One of the fastest growing “new” sports.

• Has participants in many countries outside of the US and Canada.

• Is a modern day active treasure hunting activity that allows you to use GPS – and therefore a “global address” – to locate a cache.

A Good Introduction

• Geocaching Catching On

How Do I Find a Cache?

• http://www.geocaching.com

Cache in Tree 1“Key to Freedom”

Path to Cache 1

To the left of the restrooms…

Read the directions carefully!

Black Island Trailhead to Cache 2

Information About the Trail

Cache 2

• Sometimes they are not so easy to find….

Its about enjoying the journey….

• Gopher Tortoise Burrow

Eastern Ring-neck snake

Gumbo Limbo Tree

Spanish Moss

Strangler Fig

Are there rules for Geocaching?

• Yes, there are:– 1. Take something from the

cache – 2. Leave something in the

cache – 3. Write about it in the

logbook– 4. Do not move the cache

What do I need to start a Geocache?

• Container(s) with a lid – usually plastic and waterproof

• At least one GPS device• Something to put in the

cache