Topography and contour lines: the shape of a surface
Summary
This workflow uses Visible Geology to understand what contour lines represent on a topographic map and to use contour lines on a 2D map to anticipate the 3D topography of a surface.
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Learning Goals
Learning objectives:
- Determine what contour lines represent on a topographic map
- Use contour lines on a 2D map to anticipate the 3D topography of a surface
Key Visible Geology skills:
- Use contour lines on a 2D map to anticipate the 3D topography of a surface
- Apply pre-made topographies to a block
- Create new topography from contour lines
Context for Use
This ~1 hour workflow is a standalone tool for students to either work through as part of a guided lab exercise that builds on lecture material, or as an independent exercise to consolidate learning. It builds concepts from the ground up so it is appropriate for high school to junior college level students.
Description and Teaching Materials
Visible Geology needs to be available for each student, along with the attached worksheet .pdf. Students work through the worksheet, following instructions and exploring the model as it is developed. Key learnings are highlighted in the worksheet at every step. Questions towards the end of the worksheet interrogate students' understanding, before an exercise getting them to apply their new knowledge finishes the worksheet.
Workflow handout for Topography (Acrobat (PDF) 5.6MB Jul9 26)
Teaching Notes and Tips
To save and share their work in Visible Geology, students are encouraged to log in with their Google Account.
Assessment
If students are able to answer the questions and complete the final exercise adequately, then they have met the learning objectives of this workflow.
References and Resources
For tips, tricks and how-to videos for using Visible Geology, check out the Visible Geology Help & Resources.