Google Maps is an interactive web mapping service used on a global level. It is a free technology provided by Google. It started in 1992 by two Danish brothers, Lars and Jens Rasmussen, in Sydney Australia, Google Maps was originally called Where 2 Technology. Google acquired the company in October of 2004, and transformed it into a web application.
Google Maps offers a variety of maps for public use. Some of these types include satellite, traffic, and terrain. Below are two examples of how to use Google Maps.
Google Maps is a flexible tool that can easily be utilzed in the classroom for a variety of subjects. Example lesson plans and ideas can be found in the links below.
40 Ideas on Using Google Maps and Earth in the Classroom
http://digitalexplorer.com/2010/01/12/40-ideas-on-using-google-earth-and-maps-in-the-classroom/
Ideas for Using Google Maps: Science, Social Studies, P.E., Art, Music
http://www.slideshare.net/Sherpinsky/using-google-maps-in-the-classroom-471526
Social Studies Lesson Plan: Create Directions Using a Map of Your Home Town
Example lesson plan with google maps.doc
Science Lesson Plan: Climate
http://teacher.scholastic.com/lessonplans/exploreyourearth/
Social Studies Lesson Plans: Variety of Topics and Age Levels
http://www.freetech4teachers.com/2010/05/google-earth-and-maps-lesson-plans.html