Explore! the History and Science of Astrolabes, Compasses, and Navigation
Ever wonder how early explorers discovered new lands and were able to return home? This one day class reviews the history and science of early navigation using astrolabes and compasses.
Kim Guthriegabs M. Ed
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(423)
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What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Getting ready to sail the open seas, hike a mountain trail, or just curious about navigation? This one-time class is for you! Find out how early explorers were able to navigate unmapped lands and oceans without GPS equipment. We'll begin our lesson learning about the history of navigation equipment: astrolabe, compass, and sextant. Next, we'll examine the science behind how these tools worked 1,000 years ago and are still used today by modern navies. This interactive class will provide information on making your own compass and sextant using common household supplies. Some of you explorers may already have compasses but want to still make your own. Students do not need any prior knowledge about exploration or navigation to be successful in class. It will benefit students to understand the four cardinal directions: north, east, south, and west before attending class. I will use pictures, diagrams, and short video clips to explain the science and history behind these navigation tools.
Learning Goals
Sequence the history of the astrolabe and compass
Recall the purpose of the astrolabe and compass
Explain how the astrolabe and compass work using science principles
Explain why these early navigation tools are still in use today by modern armies and navies.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Building a homemade compass involves the use of a pin or needle. Parent supervision is warranted depending on the age of the child. No child should be left to explore on their own in the woods or water.
Supply List
For making a compass at home see the included file posted on the day of class: cork, needle, magnet (fridge magnet works fine), pliers.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
- Nearpod
Sources
Smithsonian Magazine: Story of the Astrolabe
How Stuff Works
National Park Service
Joined April, 2020
4.9
423reviews
Star Educator
Popular
Teacher expertise and credentials
South Carolina Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from Southern Wesleyan
Bachelor's Degree in Education from Limestone University
I believe that students need to see the personal side of the world. When students begin to see a unique story in a history or science lesson, they become engaged and learn.
Learners need to see the relevance of what they learn. Then, they become eager to learn more. While I am a "trained teacher," I am also a lifelong learner. Because of this, I joined every teaching summer internship I was offered. I've enjoyed working with the SC Forestry Service, Oakridge Laboratory in Tennessee, and the National Archives in DC. Currently, I am working on a research project with the US Library of Congress. I believe these experiences have helped me connect with real-world events, science, and history, which, in turn, helped me be a better teacher.
When I cannot travel, I'm working on my first young adult historical fiction book or reading about where I want to travel next. I speak French and love to travel to countries where I can immerse myself in the language. I have had the opportunity to travel to several European and Caribbean areas. Some of my favorite vacations have been to historical locations: the D-Day beaches, Churchill's war rooms, castles in Scotland, and WWI trenches in Belgium.
Reading is critical in learning, and I encourage writing in most history and science lessons. I have been teaching for over 20 years. My educational background is in working with early childhood through high school-age students. My first years of teaching were in a preschool-age classroom. For the past 15 years, I have taught at the middle school level (general science, world history, French) in a public classroom. I quickly realized that I needed to become a reading teacher of science and history if my learners were successful. I have two master's degrees in education.
I look forward to meeting you in class.Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$14
per classMeets once
55 min
Completed by 6 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-12
2-6 learners per class
