Take your students on a virtual tour of the Gulf of Mexico. Using a combination of Google Earth™ 360-degree views, informational text, video, and visuals, your students will learn about the geography, history, and significance of the Gulf of Mexico from various perspectives.
 
This virtual field trip covers:
:: Geographic location of the Gulf of Mexico
:: Bordering countries (drag & drop map skills)
:: U.S. Gulf Coast states (drag & drop map skills)
:: Mexico Gulf Coast states (drag & drop map skills)
:: What is the Gulf of Mexico
:: Gulf Stream
:: Climate & hurricanes
:: First Inhabitants
:: Land Possession
:: San Juan de Ulúa (Veracruz fortress)
:: Economic Activities (shipping, fishing, oil drilling)
:: Shipwrecks (underwater shipwreck tour)
:: Galveston Shipwreck (SS Selma)
:: Environmental Concerns
:: Deepwater Horizon oil spill
:: Hypoxic Zone
:: Resiliency Efforts
 
This Virtual Field Trip Includes:
:: Informational Text (build background knowledge)
:: Response Questions (EDITABLE)
:: Map Skills (Drag & Drop)
:: Google Earth™ Links to 360-degree views
:: Video Links
:: Grading Rubric
:: Everything is set up in Google Slides & ready to go!
 
SEE PREVIEW FOR MORE DETAILS
 
How it Works:
This virtual field trip can be conducted teacher-led or shared with students through Google Classroom as an independent assignment. Everything is set up for you. This resource is LOW PREP and would even make great sub plans. Student directions are found within the lesson, and direct links are included to specific Google Earth™ locations and videos. All work is completed digitally. No printing necessary.
 
Structure:
This virtual field trip is structured. This means that the informational text and links are meaningful and are meant to lead students to think critically as they respond to the questions throughout the virtual field trip. This is also a great way to keep students accountable as they learn and explore. All response questions are EDITABLE, so you can tailor to your class needs. Students complete this activity in edit mode of Google Slides.
 
Standards Alignment:
:: Common Core Standards for Reading Informational Text
:: Georgia 7th Grade State Social Studies Standards ( SS6G1)
:: Colorado 6th Grade Social Studies Standards
 
Grading Rubric:
A grading rubric is included which assesses: accuracy, thoroughness, validity, and writing conventions. Answers will vary throughout, as students are recording their observations and findings. Drag & Drop map skills answer keys are provided.
 
Technology:
Please note that students will need to access Google Earth™ to complete this assignment. Google Earth™ can be accessed on a desktop using Chrome as the browser. If using a tablet or smartphone, simply download the Google Earth App before starting the virtual field trip. Your students will also need access to YouTube to view the video clips. Video clips are editable.
 
If you have questions, feel free to reach out prior to purchasing. Looking for another virtual field trip that you don’t see? Let me know! I can be reached directly by email at: michellemcdonald9515@gmail.com
 
Thank you!
Michelle McDonald, B.A.E.
Social Studies Education, K-12
Elementary Education K-8
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