This hidden feature provides a great way to easily measure distances on a Google Map.
Google Maps Distance Measurement Tool
Demo
Directions:
- Go to: https://www.google.com/maps
- Right-click (control-click for Mac users) the map at the desired starting point.
- Choose “Measure Distance.”
- Click the map to create the path.
- View the distance in the white box at the bottom of the map.
- Click and drag to change the path.
- Delete the path by clicking the “x” in the white box at the bottom of the map.
Hint: Zoom in to measure distances within your community. (I use this to see how far I’ve gone on my evening walk.)
Classroom Connections:
- Students first estimate the distance from Anchorage to Austin and then measure to see the actual distance.
- Students see how far it would be if they could fly from their house to the school.
- Students measure the distance around a state, a country, the school playground, a lake, etc.
- Students find a jogging route starting at the school (or their home) that is exactly 1 mile long.
- Students trace the route of an explorer to see how far he/she traveled.
In the comments area below, please post more ideas for using this in (or out) of the classroom.
How did I not know that??? Thanks, Tammy!