Google maps are used to look up addresses, get directions and see different views of your location.
In this module we will explore the different functions of Google maps by looking at some videos and having a play.
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How Google Maps work - an overview
Look at the following videos to see how Google Maps are used:- Introductory video on Google map functions
- How to Use Google Maps : Navigating Maps & Views on Google Maps
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Hands-on Demonstration
- Right click on Google Maps (open in a separate window/tab)
- Look up your home address or the library's physical address.
- Zoom in to the place to see the surrounding street names.
- Click on the satellite link - zoom in further to get an idea of what the area looks like.
- Note the options on the left.
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Street View
The street view option has many possibilities as shown in the video Street view on Google maps. Street view is a handy feature if you are going to visit an unfamiliar place.
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Street View - Exercise
Look for the library, or your house, and a few other destinations you would like to see using the street view.
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Getting Directions
We often use Google maps to get directions. The video How to Use Google Maps : Getting Directions on Google Maps explains how it works.
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Getting Directions - Exercise
- Get driving directions from your home address to the library closest to your home.
- Print the directions out.
- Get the reverse driving directions - click on the icon next to the destination boxes.
- Compare the driving route with public transport (where available) and walking route.
Note that you may not agree with the direction path, so always take the directions as a suggestion. It is advisable to ask persons familiar with local conditions about the suggested route.
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Other map search engines
Other search engine companies offer a similar service.
Yahoo maps
Bing maps
Ask Maps & Directions
More on searching for maps
You could also add the term 'map’ to your other keywords in a general search engine, especially when you need a map representation of information.
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Searching for maps - Exercise
Open up a Google general search engine and search for the following:
- Aids/HIV map
- Ancient Athens map
- 2010 soccer world cup stadiums map
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You will come across many websites that specialise in maps. Some sites are:
- Maps of world. Explore the interesting Thematic World Maps section.
- World sites atlas's map section. Also have a Thematic World Map section.
- The Earth Observatory website has global maps using satellite images from NASA which gives a picture of " how key parts of Earth’s climate system change from month to month"
Updated: September 2010
