Making and Interpreting Topographic Maps (Developed by SEPUP)
kit #439S
This activity provides students with a basic understanding of topographic maps and how to interpret them.
Students conduct a hands-on investigation using the Lab-Aids® Topographic Model to construct contour lines and create a topographic map of an area. The activity illustrates the relationship between the contour lines on a topographic map and the actual shape of the land.
Each Kit No. 439S provides materials for six student groups. Each Kit No. 439SEL provides enough material for one additional student group.
Scientific Concepts:
• Students use appropriate tools to analyze and interpret data
• Topographic maps provide information about landforms
• Topographic maps can be used to help determine an area’s past and ongoing geologic processes and its suitability for various uses
To complete this kit requires one to two ~50-minute class periods.
- Students use appropriate tools to analyze and interpret data
- Topographic maps provide information about landforms
- Topographic maps can be used to help determine an area’s past and ongoing geologic processes and its suitability for various uses
Content List in Making and Interpreting Topographic Maps (Developed by SEPUP) is as follows:
| Quantity | Description |
|---|---|
| 6 | Topographic Basins |
| 6 | Transparent plastic lids |
| 6 | Dry erase markers |
| 1 | Blue food coloring, 15-mL drop-controlled bottle |
| 1 | Transparency 1: Street Map of Boomtown |
| 1 | Transparency 2: Topographic Map of Boomtown |
| 1 | Teacher's Guide and MSDS packet |
| 28 | Student Worksheet and Guides |
- Number of students
- 24
- Number of groups
- Maximum 6 groups per period
To complete this kit requires one to two ~50-minute class periods.
Kit #444S Using Remote Sensing to Determine Topography (Developed by SEPUP)
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Kit #435 Reading River Sediments: Simulated Mineral Exploration
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