Virtual Tour Plan

Location	Activity Description	Google Earth Content
1. Parthenon, Greece	View pictures of the Parthenon and read about the essential elements of Greek Mythology, students will measure the building	3D building, ruler
2. St. Peter's Basilica, Rome	View pictures of St. Peter's Basilica and read the contributions of Christianity to the classical civilization of Rome, students will measure the building and compare it to the Parthenon	3D building, ruler
3. Temple of Heaven, China	View pictures of Temple of Heaven, and observe where other Buddhist temples throughout China are, read about and examine the essential elements of Buddhism	3D building, Overlay
4. Taj Mahal, India	View pictures of the Taj Mahal, read and examine the essential elements of Hinduism, Students will compare similarities they noticed between here and the Temple of Heaven in China, and also watch the differences and similarities Youtube video between Buddhism and Hinduism	3D building, placemarker (You tube video)

In this Google Earth Tour the students will examine some of the main religions of the world and the contributions they had to classical civilizations (as stated in Social Studies Core Curriculum Standard 2 objective 1a/b). They will examine essential elements of Greek mythology, Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
I think using Google Earth to introduce these civilizations and their religion will benefit the students' learning. It will pique the students' interest and they will be able to see that these are real places, about real people and their beliefs. It is more of a hands on, visual learning activity for the students, where they can engage and explore using what Google Earth has to offer, and further satisfy their curiosity. In addition, the students are learning about important and useful technological resources. As a teacher, I can use the gadgets in Google Earth to leave clues, or guide my students through the lesson to achieve what I want them to learn. I can have them compare, contrast, explore, and discuss their findings. It enables me to overlap many different ideas and principles that I need to introduce and teach my students.