SSAC Physical Volcanology module. Students build a spreadsheet to estimate the volume of volcanic deposits using map, thickness and high-water mark data from the 2005 Panabaj debris flow (Guatemala).

Students complete a self-guided exercise in worksheet format combined with Google Earth that helps them explore practical and observable differences between different projection and coordinate systems. The activity improves their skills in using various Google Earth features.

Students learn about coordinate systems in general by considering questions concerning what it is that the systems are expected do, and who decided how they look. They attempt to make their own coordinate systems using a common area across all groups and compete to see who can make the best one. Then they analyze why it is that some systems work better than others and consider what those observations mean for evaluating and choosing geographic coordinate systems commonly available today.

The WI Facts page on the website for the State Cartographer's Office offers different fun trivia such as interesting sites from aerial photography, geography trivia, and blank Wisconsin outline maps.

Use of this webpage alone does not meet any social studies standards. Teachers are encouraged to consider the use of inquiry and social studies/geographic disciplinary literacy to help students meet curricular goals.