Geography

This week, we started our geography unit with a discussion of where we are located on our planet.  On Google Earth, we looked at the seven continents and then zoomed in to more closely examine our continent, North America.  We noticed the different colors that were used to show the boundaries of countries, states, and counties.  Next, we looked at the United States and noticed the location of the states, such as Alaska and Hawaii.   Many students seemed surprised that Hawaii is so far out in the Pacific Ocean!  We continued to zoom in closer and closer until we reached East Montpelier Elementary School.  Students wondered if the the picture would show the latest construction.  We will have to check again to find out when the changes show up.

Throughout this unit, we will learn the names and locations of the continents and oceans, practice using map skills, and discover information about various landforms.  Students have already been excited to discuss the history of maps and about the newer technologies available to us today.  Did you know that in the past, people used maps created on clay tablets and silk fabric?