TerraClues – [A LET.IT Happen! Tech-Treat]
Tech-Treat: TerraClues
URL: http://www.terraclues.com/
Description: This interactive web site combines the power of Google Maps with the Google search engine to create truly interest-grabbing Scavenger Hunts called TerraClues. You have access to a multitude of already-made hunts that integrate with your current curriculum, or you can create your own TerraClues scavenger hunt to fit your particular classroom needs. Students learn not only about maps and curriculum content, but they also develop critical research skills by learning how to use a search engine. Additionally, TerraClues For Schools [http://www.terraclues.com/teachers/Default.aspx] has been specifically designed for teachers to use in the classroom as a teaching aid.
Key features include:
- Very easy to use. Students can begin playing right away
- Access hunts geared towards your curriculum requirements
- Create private classrooms and choose what hunts your students can play
- Create your own hunts
- Share the hunts you create with other teachers
- Talk to other teachers in the forums.
Great for Students:
- Fun way to learn.
- Solve problems and teach students how to find information on the internet.
- Search the world and learn about new places.
- Learn about a variety of cultures.
Classroom Integration Ideas: TerraClues is an online, interactive tool that can be easily integrated into any curriculum area you teach. Create a TerraClues scavenger hunt that will engage students in developing critical research skills while simultaneously learning about historical landmarks, world geography, places in history, literary character (book) trips, explore the locations of rare plants and/or endangered animals, geographic landforms, and much more. The possibilities are only limited by the extent of your imagination and creativity.
Tech-Treat Tips & Tricks:
Tip 1: Try the Tutorial Hunt to see how TerraClues works and how it might fit into your classroom curriculum needs!
Tip 2: Get your older students to create a hunt for younger students, or have groups of students create hunts based on a curriculum unit to share with the rest of the class as a review.