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Understanding Topographic Maps Using the Legend of Zelda Games!

New class

Ages 10-14

Self-Paced Class

In this one time class, students will learn about topographic maps and how they relate to things they know best - video games! At the end, your student will make a beautiful game design topographic map!

Kara Walker

Average rating:

5.0

Number of reviews:

(94 reviews)

Star Educator

1 pre-recorded lesson

1 week of teacher support

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1 year of access to the content

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About Learning Overview Schedule Teacher Reviews

What's included

1 pre-recorded lesson

1 week

of teacher support

1 year access

to the content

Class Experience

US Grade 5 - 8

Have you ever spent time climbing up a mountain in Hyrule only to find at the top there was a much easier way to get there? Not only is this a waste of stamina, but it’s also a waste of time that could be used for exploring! Game developers didn’t just get this idea from anywhere, topographic maps are important here on Earth as well! 

In this course we will look at two locations in Hyrule and talk about the different location’s topographic maps. After we’ve explored the two worlds, we will look at a location here on Earth! To finish, your student will draw out a topographic map of their own and become an expert climber both in video games and in real life (well, with a map at least)! 

By the end of this course, your learner will know the parts of a topographic map, how to read topographic maps, and how to draw one of their own!

Learning Goals

Students will know how to calculate elevation levels using index contour lines.

Students will understand slope using contour lines.

Syllabus

Standards

Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

1 Lesson

over 1 Week

Lesson 1:

Topographic Maps

 In this lesson, we will look at how topographic maps are used in games and in real life. After a short lesson, you will follow Teacher Kara in the creation of your own topographic map!

Other Details

Supply List

Your learner will be given two options for drawing topographic maps: digitally or by hand. Each method requires slightly different materials. I provide two videos showing both ways. 

Digital option: Your student will need a digital drawing device (iPad, Wacom tablet, etc.) and some sort of drawing app (procreate, MS paint, Krita, etc.). 

Traditional option: Your student will need paper and a pen or pencil.

External Resources

Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.

Sources

This class refers to the Legend of Zelda games to help students understand topographic maps. It isn't required your student play this game to take this class. Everything the student will need to know will be provided by the teacher during the time of lecture.

Meet the teacher

Kara Walker

Joined July, 2021

5.0

94reviews

Star Educator

Profile

Teacher expertise and credentials

Texas Teaching Certificate in Science

Hi there! 

I am Ms. Walker and in my class I believe in teaching science to the interest of the learner! It’s all about creating a connection, establishing confidence, and getting creative when it comes to the various topics science has to offer! 


I’ve found that one of the best ways to reach a student's curiosity when it comes to science is to use examples from their interests! 

Video games? Check! 
Sports? Check! 
Cute kawaii art themes? Check! 

I have a wide variety of ways to engage students while building lasting science knowledge! 

MY BACKGROUND: 

- Certified Life Science Teacher since 2019
- Taught 3 years in-person for middle school science
- Bachelors of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Work as a team with parents to ensure success for their learner
- Hold connection-building and a positive mindset as top priorities in the classroom

I can’t wait to start working with your learner! For any questions that aren’t answered here, feel free to send me a message! (: