Google Maps: Swine Flu

Here is an example of the web 2.0 tool, google maps being used on a global level to track the swine flu. I am going to give you the link instead of embedding it because this map loads slowly, but is a very interesting use of a web 2.0 tool.

http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&t=p&source=embed&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=106484775090296685271.0004681a37b713f6b5950&start=0&num=200&ll=19.311143,-88.59375&spn=141.931288,351.5625&z=1

My Maps – Google Maps

One of the VHS teachers asked me to do a tutorial on how to set up a custom map in Google Maps. She wants to put a marker for all of her students’ high schools with links to their websites in her custom map. We discussed the other possibilities of making a custom google map. In Social Studies it could be used to mark different battle grounds, in Science it could be used to mark tornadoes in a season, the possibilities are endless.

My Maps can be customized with place markers, videos, images, html, text, and more.

So, I created this map of the places in Europe I visited while I was living in Greece in college. You can make maps public or private (I made mine public)

 
View Larger Map

 
STEP 1
Create a google account if you don’t have one (www.google.com)

STEP 2
Do a search for “MY MAPS” or click here: http://maps.google.com/maps

STEP 3
Create a map. Post the link below, or if you have a blog, post it in your blog and post the link below.

EXTENSION
Create a map to integrate into one of your lessons.

Brand New Google Earth 5.0

Enjoy a guided tour of the sites of ancient Rome from the comfort of your desktop. From the Colosseum to the ruins of the Temple of Minerva, each placemark offers a brief history of the specific location.

Google SketchUp

Google SketchUp is software that you can use to create 3D models of anything you like. This is great for all grade levels K-12. You can upload your model right to youtube.com.