Geocaching is a treasure hunting game where players use GPS devices and coordinates to hide and seek containers called geocaches around the world. Players find caches by entering latitude and longitude coordinates into their GPS, then using it to navigate to within 10 feet of the hidden cache. When a cache is found, players sign an online log and may trade small trinkets. Geocaching gets people outside exploring with map reading and navigation skills while building an online community around the game.

1. Geocaching: The sport where YOU are the search engine Bridget Belardi [email_address] blog.mtlsd.org/cybrary

2. What is Geocaching? A high-tech treasure hunt Need a GPS Seek a cache based on latitude and longitude coordinates This is not just a teaching tool, it’s a lifetime activity.

3. GPS Global Positioning System Approx: $100-$500 Garmin and Magellan are the most popular Can download cache info into the receiver if it is properly equipped iPhones Groundspeak App $10 Garmin eTrex Venture-$169

4. How Does It Work? Using three satellites (trilateration), you should be able to determine your exact position. Some variables include: Trees Buildings Atmospheric Interference, etc. *A typical hand held receiver gets within 5-15 feet.

5. What am I looking for?

6. How do I find a cache? Build an account on www.geocaching.com Search by city, zip code, state, driving route, etc. (I usually search by zip code--15017) Record the latitude and longitude coordinates and read the hints!

11. Then what? Get as close to the location as you can. Insert the coordinates into the GPS. Follow the compass until it gets to 0-10 feet. Use your “geosense” to find the cache.

12. When you find the cache… Sign the log book Trade items—Take something, leave something Look for travel bugs and geocoins Be sure to put the cache back in the same place you found it with the appropriate amount of camouflage.

13. Extras Travel Bugs

14. Geocoins Collectable and tradable items

15. Some “lingo” Muggles: Those who are not geocachers. You must be careful to be stealthy around them! TFTC: Thanks for the Cache TFTF: Thanks for the Find TNLN: Took Nothing Left Nothing

16. “ Survival” Guide Take a bag that includes GPS First Aid kit/bug spray Pen/Pencil Swag/Tradable items Compass

18. Educational Benefits Reading latitude and longitude Map skills Using a compass Can add a research component Cross-curricular connections Letterboxing Hybrid

19. Map Skills GIS (Geographic Information Software) Google Maps

20. Educaching http://www.educaching.com/ Resource for lesson plans, how-to CD $32.00 Also includes ideas for grant writing

21. Google Earth and GPS Elementary and Secondary versions $34.95 Lesson plans and blackline masters

22. Other Books For Your Library

23. Other Information Podcachers Geocaching List Serv (For teachers) PAECT list of resources —including GIS software Caching Teacher Blog ** Dr. Christie’s Guide for Educators

24. Want to find out more? www.geocaching.com : For all your geocaching needs A site for beginners: http://www.factsfacts.com/geocacher.htm http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geocaching

25. Bridget Belardi [email_address] blog.mtlsd.org/cybrary