Education Resources to help teach the 2010 Winter Olympics (3of10): Torch Relay Interactive Map

Another hidden gem of the main Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic website is the Olympic Torch Relay Interactive Map.

Not only is this a fantastic resource to follow the build up to the Olympics with obviously links to geography and map work. But with a bit creative thought its possible to use the site to introduce a number of numeracy activities including direction, distance, speed and units of measurement.

There is also the possibility to challenge children to plan alternative routes because of a flash flood or other natural disaster. In fact the Olympic Torch has already be diverted once due to a polar bear (what a great context for learning and ‘real’ problem solving activity that could be!).

The other great thing about the map is that is every day new news stories about the local area are added and photographs are up-loaded. The map provides a great opportunity to link together the diversity of people and landscape within this massive and wonderful country.

The pictures also provide a great context for creative writing and children could easily imagine what it would be like to have torch being carried through their local area. What would it feel like, sound like and smell like?

Alternatively children could imagine they were one of the relay runners:

• How would they feel after many days of carrying the Olympic flame? 

• How did they feel about and cope with the weather? (the conditions at the time could easily be researched)

• Did they feel proud to be representing their country in this great event?

• Were they worried that they might let their team mates down?

The possibilities really are endless.

Of course, not only does the map provide a good opportunity to learn about Canada. But also the idea of the Olympic relay can be taken to any country.

Why not have your classes plan their own torch relay of a country of their choosing. They have to research the country, the famous land marks and the route runners will take. They could plot their proposed routes on a Google My Map or a Google Earth Tour.

What other ideas do you have for using the Olympic map?