The Earth Science teacher provided me with a JPG of a contour map that he wanted printed in 3D. I opened the the JPG in GIMP and smoothed out the contour lines. I then opened the file in Inkscape. I traced the outlines of the map and exported it as an SVG. I imported the SVG into 123D Design as a sketch. I trimmed excess lines and loops from the sketch and separated the layers into different files. I added arbitrary height numbers to each layer. I used a permanent marker to highlight the height numbers, stream, and cartographic line. I printed 10 copies of this map for the Earth Science class.

Overview: Students are given a large piece of blank paper, a pencil, and the 3d printed contour map. They place the tallest contour (120) onto the paper and trace the outline. After tracing each level, they add the next layer and trace its outline. After tracing the last outline, they have a complete contour map of this imaginary island.

Audience: This project is designed for middle school Earth Science students doing a mapping and geology unit.

Skills learned: Students learn how to read contour maps and identify high and low altitude points on a map.

Lesson/Activity: Each map is used by a pair of students. They trace the outlines of each layer, beginning with the tallest one. After tracing each layer, they add the next layer and trace it. Once all of the contour lines have been drawn, students mark the different heights of the contours and draw the stream onto the map. The teacher discusses how streams erode into hills, how distances are measured across contour lines, how islands form and erode, and how to read a contour map.

Duration: This project is designed to be completed in 1-2 class periods.

Preparation: Students are provided with blank paper, a pencil, and the 3d printed contour map. The project is usually completed by pairs of students.

References: Students can study textbooks/internet for background information on contour maps and map reading.

Rubric/Assessment: I don't know all of the assessments for this mapping unit. I was involved with printing and design rather than the actual unit teaching. Students do have to demonstrate an understanding of maps, contour lines, stream formation and erosion.

Handouts: Students receive the 3d printed contour map, a blank sheet of paper, a pencil, and reference the appropriate section of the textbook.