Tuesday, February 15, 2011

How Cool is TripLine?

Another technology I have recently discovered is TripLine. As soon as I learned about this site I started thinking of ways we could use it in social studies. Actually, it can be used in many subject areas. But, since social studies is one of the areas I teach, that's been my focus. I am still thinking of how I might use it for math. There must be a way!

Anyway, we are just beginning a study of the routes of exploration of European explorers. After we read the corresponding chapter in the social studies text, students will choose an explorer they would like to research in a bit more depth. When their research is complete, students will present their "report" to the class. Students will be asked to represent their learning in a poster including a map of their explorer's routes, sponsors, the impact of the explorer, and other interesting information. Once students have completed this part of the assignment, they will then use their new learning to create a "TripLine" interactive map/digital story.

Here is the sample I made to introduce students to the idea. Christopher Columbus made four trips to the new world. This interactive map shows some details of his first trip.