Google Maps - My Maps

What is Google Maps - My Maps?
  • My Maps is part of Google Maps
  • Can pinpoint locations on a custom map
  • The maps can be easily shared with a link or code to embed them into a website
  • The "My Map" can be rated and commented on
  • http://maps.google.com 
What are the advantages of using Google Maps - My Maps?
  • Very easy to find and pinpoint locations
  • In the near future, they will be easy to embed into Google Sites (right now you can only copy and paste the link and put the link into Google Sites)
  • You can set your map to private 
  • You can share your custom maps with collaborators
How was Google Maps - My Maps integrated into the South Florida Oceans & Beaches Project? 

Stephanie and Aliza speaking about Google Maps

How can you integrate Google Maps - My Maps in your classroom?
  • Used for a geography lesson
  • Can be used for the 'Flat Stanley' Project to show where Flat Stanley has been
  • Was used to Map the San Diego wildfires (KPBS), and could be used to map or track other natural disasters (hurricanes, tornadoes, winter storms)
  • Could be used to map historical events (wars, movements, etc.)
  • Planning a trip
  • Google Maps for Educators:  http://www.google.com/educators/p_maps.html
  • Google, UK Schools: http://www.google.co.uk/schools/classroom.html (lesson plan ideas with Google Maps)
How do you get started using Google Maps - My Maps with your students? 
  • Creating your 'My Map'
    • Go to http://maps.google.com 
    • Select the My Maps tab in the top left corner of the page
    • Select Create New Map
    • Give your map a title and description
    • Choose if you want your map public or private
    • If you select Collaborate, you can add specific people to view your map
    • You can also allow your collaborators to edit your map
    • Select Done
    • You have now setup your map!
  • Editing your 'My Map'
    • Select Edit
    • The hand tool allows you to move the map across the page
    • The place mark tool allows you to mark locations
    • Once you mark a location you can add a title and description (you can also add pictures, links, and formatting to your description)
    • The line and shape tool allows you to connect locations or enclose areas around shapes (this was used to show the San Diego Wildfires)
    • The golden person allows you to see any location at street view
    • You can view multiple My Maps at the same time by checking the boxes near their titles
    • You can print, email, get a link for, and embed your My Map by  using the tools in the upper right hand corner of your map
    • When you finish editing your map, select done