Google Earth in the classroom

I love the idea of using Google earth for this assignment. So many students have no idea how to compare homes and buildings but I thought comparing Monticello with some of the homes from the estate boom would not only give them an opportunity to look at the shapes, but they would be able to really compare. Using Google Earth gives them an idea about where they are and if the students wish to look into the estates more there is so much additional information available that wouldn't be available if I just made a Power point presentation for the class.

1.Hearst Castle
Read the link and write a paragraph explaining why they felt they needed a home this large
Places, panoramio
2. Biltmore Estate, Vanderbilt’s
Identify the different shapes used to create the estate. View the slideshow of the estate and look for architectural themes.
Places, Panoramio, Wikipedia
3. Kykuit .- The Rockefeller Estate
Look at the links and find the art galleries in the home. Why is it that art is such a sign of affluence?
Places, wikipedia
4. Monticello- Thomas Jefferson
Look at the date this was built. Why is it so much smaller than the rest of the mansions? Now look at the other pictures showing Monticello at different times of the day with different angles. What do you notice that is different?
Wikipedia, places


3rd Grade
Standard 4: Contextualization The student will interpret and apply visual arts in relation to cultures, history and all learning

Objective 1
Compare the arts of different cultures to explore their similarities and diversities.

1. Describe why different cultures may have used different materials to create their arts and crafts.
2. Hypothesize why homes and buildings have generally become larger in modern times.

Objective 2
Connect various kinds of art with particular cultures, times, or places.

Objective 3
Recognize the connection of visual arts to all learning