As part of his instructions to Lewis, President Jefferson made it clear that his "observations [were] to be taken with great pains and accuracy, to be entered distinctly and intelligibly for others as well as yourself, . . . ". In order to fulfill this instructional mandate, the making of maps became a vital part of the expedition's activities. How were these maps created? What do they tell us about the country traveled during the expedition? What criteria must be met for a map to be truly usable by its reader? How has today's technology impacted the types of maps made and the detail available? To learn the answer to these questions and more, join experts on the original expedition as well as experts from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency to compare the "then and now" of cartography. Featured student participants in our videoconference audience share maps of their own creation with each other and our experts and engage in interactive activities during the videoconference that center on map making and understanding.
Contents of the Broadcast:
1. Opening to 7:40--Introduction, welcome, orientation to the day's topic, essential questions for the videoconference, and links to the original expedition, including close-up images of Clark's map of the journey
2. 7:40 to 18:09--This section discusses the use of maps. Students offer reasons why maps are important and how they are used. Characteristics of a useful map are highlighted, including use of a neatline, compass rose, scale, and legend. Visual examples of maps and their useful characteristics are included.
3. 18:09 to 35:37--The focus of this section is on map making "then." Students from Wydown Middle School in Clayton share their map making experience creating maps without the use of scientific instruments, creating their scale, and drawing the maps by hand. Other student groups ask them questions, and then we see video footage of map making tools used on the Lewis and Clark expedition including a sextant, surveyor's compass, and chronometer. Questions from student groups about these tools are also included.
4. 35:35 to 58:35--The focus shifts to map making "now." We are joined by Laura Thompson, Program Manager at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, who shares a power point presentation on the advanced technology the agency uses to create the most modern and detailed maps possible. She also answers questions from student groups. Then students from Queen of All Saints Elementary School in Oakville, Missouri share with our audience their project using some of the NGA's technology to create maps. After their presentation, they answer questions from other student groups.
5. 58:35 to End--Summary of major concepts covered in the conference, closing comments, thanks to all involved, and goodbye.
