Geography – geographical inquiry skills, geographical tools
Program overview
Students work in small groups (2-3 students) and use GPS devices to complete a geocache (scavenger hunt) around their school grounds. At each cache (hidden point), they will complete a task that addresses a geography skill or tool.
Session details
75 minutes. Up to 3 sessions (one class each) per day.
Key syllabus outcomes
Stage 4
- Students acquire and process geographical information by selecting and using geographical tools for inquiry (GE4-7)
Stage 5
- Students acquire and process geographical information by selecting and using appropriate and relevant geographical tools for inquiry (GE5-7)
Learning experiences
Students learn about GPS and how to use the Garmin etrex GPS devices. They split into small groups of 2-3 and use GPS devices to complete a geocache (scavenger hunt) around school grounds. At each of eight caches (hidden points) they find a tub containing a stamp and activity card, and any required tools for the task. They complete the task, record their answers and stamp their team worksheet before moving on to another cache. Tasks include using fieldwork instruments, using compasses, using maps and interpreting charts and graphs.