Where Do We Choose to Live and Why?

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In this geography investigation, learners use a nighttime satellite image to observe areas of light across the United States and to identify patterns and spatial distributions of human settlements. They explain the reasons for these patterns by answering questions and making inferences about what they observe. This detailed lesson guide includes background information, resource links, and handouts.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Briefing and Logs 1, 2, and 2.2
  • Figure 2: United States at night puzzle
  • Figure 5: United States relief map
  • U.S. road/travel map or atlas
  • World map or globe
  • Overhead transparency sheet
  • Overhead markers (light colors)
  • Clear cellophane tape
  • Scissors

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
      • Probes, Satellites and Spacecraft
    • Earth Processes
      • Weather and Climate
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Technology
  • Life Sciences
    • Ecology
      • Populations
  • Mathematics
    • Algebra
      • Patterns
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Collection
      • Data Representation
    • Representation
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results

Informal Categories

  • Nature and Environment

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • Public domain, ,