Find It!
Students learn about global positioning systems.Copyright 2008 Paul Downey from Berkhamsted, UK, Wikimedia Commons https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spatial_memory#/media/File:Garmin_eTrex_Legend_C_in_hand.jpg
Students learn the basic concept of global positioning systems (GPS) using triangulation and measurement on a small scale—within boxes in the classroom. They discover how GPS and navigation integrate mathematics and scientific concepts to create a standard for locating people and objects. This activity helps students understand both the need for and methods of navigation.
Engineers are involved in the design of satellites, getting them into space, and analyzing the data retrieved from them. GPS designed by engineers helps to determine precise locations of receivers on Earth. GPS has become a common technology in vehicle and phone designs. Engineers work with the communication systems, from satellites to information highways, which help people contact each other from great distances.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Describe a satellite and how it helps in locating a person on Earth.
- Explain how triangulation is used to find a location.
- Describe how engineers are involved in the design and use of satellites.
- Use strings to measure distances between points.