Date: March 3, 1997

Grade Level(s): 3, 4, 5, 6

Subject(s):

• Interdisciplinary
• Social Studies/Geography
• Mathematics

Anticipatory set:

How many of you have ever gone on vacation?

Where would you like to go in the United States?

Students will demonstrate the ability to estimate distance on a map. Create their own maps in detail. Be able to describe different geographical areas. Students will also calculate, using distance and speed, how long their trip will take.

Data sheet, paper, pencil, and string.

On one sheet of paper, each student will pick a place in the United States that they have visited or would like to visit.

The student will then be ask to pick a mode of transportation(car, plane or bicycle).

The student will then pick an average speed for the mode they chose.

The student will then estimate the distance of their destination,from Mankato, on the Road Atlas.

The student will then write down the description of the different geographical areas they will travel through.

The student will then figure out how long the trip will take, using their rate of speed and distance traveled.(If distance =rate * time then, 20 mph at a distance of 300 miles =15 hrs)

If the hors of a trip exceeds 24 hrs the student must convert the hours into days.

After the data table is complete , each student will be responsible for drawing their own map.

Each map will contain their own scale of measurement and pictorial descriptions of the land.

After the explanation of the exercise the teacher will go through the data sheet with the students. The student and the teacher will figure out what rate of speed they should go and the distance using the string.

The teacher will then demonstrate how to use the formula Distance= rate * time. the teacher will point out the different geographical areas and write them down on the data sheet. Teacher will also have a sample map already completed to show the students.

Independent practice: Each individual student is then responsible in filling out their own data sheet and map drawing. The teacher will guide the students if they need help. Each map and data sheet will be presented and explained to the class.

For a home work assignment have the students estimate the distance and time traveled from school to their homes to school. Have each student draw a map of their travel.

U.S. destination___________________

What is your mode of transportation? A. car B. plane C. bicycle

Average speed of transportation(must not break any laws) ___________.

Estimated distance from Eagle Lake to destination____________miles.

How long will the trip take, using Distance=Rate*Time? ________hours ________days________hours

Give a description of the different geographical areas you will travel through.