Exploring Google Maps

Learning Goals

• • Access the Google maps website

  • Learn to search for an address

  • Maximize the map viewing area

  • Become familiar with navigation features

  • Explore different map views

  • Explore map features including photos and movies

Accessing Google Maps

Google Maps is a terrific site for exploring geographical and community information. You can explore your neighbourhood, or travel to exotic places, all without leaving your chair! Here is how to get started:

• • Open Internet Explorer. If you are unfamiliar with Internet Explorer, you may want to read the Using the Internet tutorial first.

  • In the Address Bar type maps.google.com and press the Enter key.

    • Or, you could simply search for google maps in the Quick Search box.

Search for Your Home

• • Type in your home address in the Maps Search area

    • Tip: Be sure to put a comma (,) between your street, your city, and your province.

  • Click Search and the map will zoom into your home.

Expand the Viewing Area

• • Press the <F11> key to expand Internet Explorer to full screen mode. Practice switching between regular and full screen mode by pressing the <F11> key again.

  • Expand map area as shown below:

Navigate Google Maps

Try out some of the Navigation features as highlighted on the diagram below:

You can view a detailed summary of Google Maps navigation on-line by clicking on this link.

Exploring Google Map Features

Visit the Google Maps overview page at the following link and try the various features:

• Google Maps Overview

Using the resource above, try the following exercises:

• 1. Find the nearest Pizza places

  2. View local photos of your neighbourhood

  3. Try out the overview map

Here's a video demonstrating how to use Google Maps to plan a weekend trip

Getting Directions

Google Maps is great for finding how to get from point A to B, even if you want to travel by bike or foot!

Google Maps Street View

Google Street View takes you there by putting you on the street. Take a stroll through a city that you've always wanted to visit!

Beyond Maps - Google Earth

Fascinated by travel and geography. Go the next step and load Google Earth on your computer. Get 3D views, fly across landscapes, and explore the ocean depths.

• Google Earth Website

Here's some of what you can experience: