The Amazing Geocaching Race with Core Content High Tech Treasure Hunt: Using GPS & Geocaching as...

The Amazing Geocaching Race with Core Content

High Tech Treasure Hunt: Using GPS & Geocaching as Instructional ToolsPaul Weaver – Science TeacherLexington Traditional Magnet Schoolhttp://www.staff.fcps.net/pweaver E-mail: pweaver@fayette.k12.ky.usIdeas from Lynn M. Lary, Lane ESD, Eugene, Oregon

Today

Learn about GeocachingLearn how to use a GPSParticipate in a GeocachePrepare ideas to use in your Geocache lesson for school

Geocaching Overview http://rockyweb.cr.usgs.gov/outreach/gps.html

Geocaching Overviewhttp://t4.jordan.k12.ut.us/teacher

_resources/Science/gps.html

GPS Resources for Teachers and Students

Geocaching Overviewhttp://www.geocaching.com

Geocaching Defined

Geocaching is essentially a high tech treasure hunt that relies upon the use of GPS technology.You can use Geocaching as an instructional tool to hook kids into learning about essentially any subject by creating community-based caches.

Going Geocaching

What’s in a Cache?Caches come in many forms but are usually in a waterproof container such as Tupperware or ammo boxesInside you’ll usually find a log book, pen and official Geocache informationPlastic bag to keep materials dryPrize or collectable, often with a theme designated by the person who created the cacheTravel Bugs (more on this later!)

Types of Caches

TraditionalMultiLetterbox HybridEventMystery or puzzle

TraditionalThis is the original cache type consisting, at a bare minimum, of a container and a log book. Coordinates listed are the exact location of the cache. “If you take an item, leave an item, and write in the logbook.” Some caches are themed, so make sure that you read the description before going geocaching.

Multi

This cache involves two or more locations with the final location being the physical container. There are hints at each cache location. An offset cache is a location where you go to get hints for the actual cache.

Letterbox Hybrid

This is a form of treasure hunting using clues instead of coordinates. Sometimes coordinates are used. Read more about letterboxing at http://www.letterboxing.org/ web site.

Event

Occasionally, local geocachers and geocaching organizations designate a time and location to meet and discuss geocaching. After the event the caches are archived.

Mystery or puzzle

This is the “catch-all” of cache types. This may involve complicated puzzles you will first need to solve to determine the coordinates. The coordinates listed are not the actual cache location but a general reference point. This leads to new and unique geocaching challenges.

Micro: Stairway to Heaven

Grandfathered Cache Types

VirtualWebcamLocationless (reverse)Earthcache

http://www.waymarking.com/

Look and learn about something.

Skinner Cabin Replica And Applegate Trail Signs, Skinner Park, Eugene, Oregon

Virtual

Webcam

Existing web cameras are used to monitor various areas (road conditions and parks) and the idea is to get yourself in front of the camera to log your visit. Webcam caches are now in the http://www.waymarking.com/ web site.

Locationless (Reverse)

Earthcache

This is a special place that people can visit to learn about a unique geoscience feature or aspect of our Earth. Educational notes and details about the location (lat and long) are given. More information can be found at http://www.earthcache.org/.

Sample Cache Containers

Unusual Cache Containers

Don’t have a GPS?

"Locationless" caches are a great way for teachers to bring the world into their classroom as people from all over assist in the creation of a "virtual exhibit."

What is a GPS Receiver?

A GPS receiver is a tool for determining your exact location on the planet (within a few meters)

Coverage is worldwideProblem areas: trees, canyons, buildings

Coordinates are normally given in Longitude and LatitudeYou can use the receiver to navigate from your current location or to another locationEasy to use!

How Does It Work?Requires minimum of 3 satellites

12 can be received at one timeTransmitter power- 50 WattsSignal travels 186,000 miles per second

One satellite for time correctionImproves accuracy

Who Provides the Information?

Developed by the Department of Defense24 Satellites

Altitude of 11,000 milesOrbits the Earth every 12 hoursTransmits signals used to determine exact

• Position• Velocity• Time

Removing SAGPS signal degradation (Select Availability) was removed by the Clinton Administration May 1st, 2000. This allowed civilian users of GPS to pinpoint locations up to ten times more accurately than before.

Using a Geko 101

Buttons Changing ScreensChecking Satellite StatusNavigating to a Location

Map PageSee a breadcrumb trail of where you've been with waypoints that have been marked along the path.

Compass PageThis screen shows the distance and direction to your destination while displaying actual speed and distance traveled beneath the graphic compass

Mark WayPoint FeatureMark an area along your journey as a waypoint to easily track and find important locations.

Garmin Geko 101 Screen Shots

PanTrack™ PagePan along your track and "go back in time" to select a location to 'Mark', or perform a 'TracBack®' or 'Direct Go To'.

Press the red button on the right.Please wait – Tracking satellitesWhen the satellites are located and being tracked, then proceed.Press page button (immediately to the right of the OK button)Press page button until the Compass page appears.Press the up or down button until the Location (longitude and latitude) is shown.Keep the screen on this page for easy use and follow the numbers.

Finding your way

Possible Activities

ScienceMathLanguage ArtsSocial StudiesAny topic that you are able to teach

N44 05.928’ W123 04.489’ Shall we have a picnic here?N44 05.944’ W123 04.513’ Should we climb it or decorate it?

Traditional /Letterbox Hybrid Geocache

More locations with hints.N44 05.937’ W123 04.464’

Look for a structure that could cross over water. Over, under, or around?

N44 05.987’ W123 04.460’Walk along a concrete path until you find three metal boxes.

N44 05.952’ W123 04.455’What’s blue with red springs

and makes tipsy fun for everyone?

N44 06.006’ W123 04.522’This place can hold lots of

things in the sea and on the land.

Travel Bugs

Serial NumberTravel GoalsTrip Tracking

Service Learning IdeasTrail Mapping Wetlands MappingPlant InventoryCommunity Boardwalk Interpretive SignsCemetery Mapping ProjectsRiver ExplorationAmerican Red Cross Disaster PlanPark Information for MapsGeocaching and CITO (Cache In, Trash Out) Collecting Data for the StateTeach each other something

Your Ideas

When you have a few moments blog your ideas on geocaching!

http://forums.groundspeak.com/GC/index.php?s=7dd6c7986e5cb6b76b2e3ccec0127239&showtopic=86820