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Students learn about topographic maps, including contour maps, by collecting data from a 3D model of a landform to create a contour map. Then the teacher provides direct instruction on contour map features, creating profiles, and calculating gradient, and students create profiles and calculate gradients for the contour map they created during the explore phase. Finally, students match typical geographical features to representations on a contour map and extend their thinking by identifying erosional processes on a contour map.

In this unit students will analyze and create topographic maps of human cities as they consider how geographical features such as oceans, lakes, and mountains have influenced where humans have chosen to live. Students will also make predictions about how changes in the Earth's surface features that may take place?whether due to climate change or other factors?can influence the migration of human populations in the future.

Students test out their ideas and misconceptions about topographic by applying their thinking to a new problem: Contour Map/Geographical Feature Card Sort.