den 2 geocaching_day_2010[1]
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Geocaching:
The sport where YOUare the search engine
Bridget [email protected]
blog.mtlsd.org/cybrary
What is Geocaching?
• A high-tech treasure hunt• Need a GPS• Seek a cache based on latitude and
longitude coordinates • This is not just a teaching tool, it’s a
lifetime activity.
GPS
• Global Positioning System• Approx: $100-$500 • Garmin and Magellanare the most popular• Can download cacheinfo into the receiver if itis properly equipped• iPhones• Groundspeak App $10
Garmin eTrex Venture-$169
How Does It Work?
• Using three satellites (trilateration), you should be able to determine your exact position.
• Some variables include:– Trees– Buildings– Atmospheric Interference, etc.
*A typical hand held receiver gets within 5-15 feet.
What am I looking for?
How do I find a cache?
• Build an account on – www.geocaching.com
Search by city, zip code, state, driving route, etc.
(I usually search by zip code--15017)
Record the latitude and longitude coordinates and read the hints!
77
88
99
1010
Then what?
• Get as close to the location as you can.• Insert the coordinates into the GPS. • Follow the compass until it gets to 0-10
feet. • Use your “geosense” to find the cache.
When you find the cache…
• Sign the log book • Trade items—Take something, leave
something• Look for travel bugs and geocoins• Be sure to put the cache back in the same
place you found it with the appropriate amount of camouflage.
Extras
• Travel Bugs
Geocoins
• Collectable and tradable items
Some “lingo”
• Muggles: Those who are not geocachers. You must be careful to be stealthy around them!
• TFTC: Thanks for the Cache• TFTF: Thanks for the Find• TNLN: Took Nothing Left Nothing
“Survival” Guide
• Take a bag that includes– GPS– First Aid kit/bug spray– Pen/Pencil– Swag/Tradable items– Compass
Educational Benefits
• Reading latitude and longitude• Map skills• Using a compass• Can add a research component• Cross-curricular connections• Letterboxing Hybrid
Map Skills
• GIS (Geographic Information Software)• Google Maps
Educaching
• http://www.educaching.com/ • Resource for lesson plans, how-to CD• $32.00• Also includes ideas for
grant writing
Google Earth and GPS
• Elementary and Secondary versions• $34.95• Lesson plans and blackline masters
Other Books For Your Library
Other Information
• Podcachers• Geocaching List Serv (For teachers)• PAECT list of resources —including GIS
software• Caching Teacher Blog• **Dr. Christie’s Guide for Educators
Want to find out more?
www.geocaching.com : For all your geocaching needs
A site for beginners: http://www.factsfacts.com/geocacher.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geocaching