National Geography Standard 1 requires that students learn:"How to use maps and other geographic representations, geospatial technologies, and spatial thinking to understand and communicate information" (Heffron and Downs 2012). These concepts have real-world applicability. For example, elevation contour maps are common in many…

Ever want to take a quick, deep-dive into a map found in students' textbooks? Ever want to use a web-based map to bring that static, print map to life? Maybe the map would be better with interactive or near real-time data. This article discusses the new Earth Science GeoInquiries! Earth Science GeoInquiries from Esri are instructional resources…

Field trips are wonderful opportunities to expand student learning, but the bus rides can be challenging. Perched in the first row, teachers attempt to guide the driver while tossing repeated reminders of safe bus behavior to the students in back, inevitably arriving at the destination flustered and possibly nauseated. In this article the author…

Instructions for constructing contour models from topographic maps are presented. Includes materials needed, sources of topographic maps, tips for drawing lines, and preparing the model using cardboard. Indicates that the model is a valuable instructional tool for turning topographic maps into "real" contours of land. (Author/JN)

Map making is described in the context of extraterrestrial areas. An analogy to terrestrial map making is used to provide some background. The status of projects designed to map extraterrestrial areas are discussed including problems unique to this science. (CW)

Reviews the history of cartography. Describes the contributions of Strabo and Ptolemy in early maps. Identifies the work of Gerhard Mercator as the most important advancement in mapping. Discusses present mapping standards from history. (CW)

From interviews with two cartographers, describes the work done and skills needed in the art and science of cartography, which includes mapping not only the earth, the ocean floor, and air currents but also the galaxy. Discusses earnings, employment prospects, training needed, and how to get into the field. (MF)