Overview
Students were asked to create a topographic map of Mt. Shasta after viewing the 3-D fly-around movie. The students then looked at the DEM (digital elevation model) for Mt. Shasta. We discussed how DEMs and topographic maps are similar. DEMs are computer files of topographical elevation data that Vistapro can render into 3-D images. The students then viewed the Mars crater movie and drew a topographic map from then topographic maps using hatchure marks. They then viewed the DEM for the Mars canyon movie, and drew a topographic map from the 3-D drive through. They learned how to depict a canyons in topographic maps. It is important to revisit topographic maps and review certain facts: on one contour line, all elevations are the same; steep versus gradual slopes; and how different structures (craters, hills, canyons) are depicted on a topographic map. Time permitting, students were able to render their own images using VistaPro DEM's. They enjoyed this program and wanted to make their own movies. They used the preview feature to fly through (wire-frame) their landscapes. Potential problems include the fact that the Macintosh versions of VistaPro are buggy. The PC version seems to have fixed these problems, but it is not as user friendly as the Macintosh version. Try running the 68 k version on Macintosh. Students could make movies using low resolution modeling that could be rendered quickly.

Goals:
Students apply knowledge of topographical maps and how computer programs are used to make 3-D models of areas that humans have never visited.
Application of topographical mapping skills.

Central Question:
How useful are 2-dimensional topographical maps compared to 3-dimensional models?
How can we apply 3-D models to solve problems?

Materials for each team:
Access to a Macintosh computer
VistaPro program or downloaded quick time movies Mt. Shasta, Mars Craters, and Mars Canyon.
Paper for each student.
Students work in groups of three or four to watch movies and make drawing.

Setting the stage:
Review topographical maps and contour lines. Introduce the concept of DEMs and how computers can make 3-D models of digital elevation data. Vistapro movies can be created with different perspectives; motorcycle, dune buggy, glider, helicopter, and cruise missile.

Exploration/Investigation
1. Introduce Mt. Shasta and ask student how do they think it was formed. Have students look at the DEM used to make the Mt. Shasta movie, then watch the movie. After viewing, have the students draw a topographical map of Mt. Shasta.
2. Discuss the use of radar mapping and how NASA has mapped Mars. We can take a virtual tour of Mars without leaving our classroom using Vistapro. Have the students view the Mars Crater movie, then draw the topographic representation of the crater.
3. Show the Mars Canyon movie, then have the students drawn it and tell what vehicle's perspective (dune buggy) it is. This image will be harder and students may want to watch the movie a few times.

Bringing it together:
Class discussion

1. Ask the students what was the perspective of the Mt. Shasta movie? (helicopter) How do they think Mt. Shasta was formed? (volcano)

2. What was the perspective of the Mars Crater movie? (helicopter) After students have drawn their interpretation of the topographic map, have them view the DEM. How different was their drawing and the DEM?

3. Discuss with students how could NASA use these 3-D models to study Mars. (ie: Planning landing sites, studying geologic features to learn about geologic processes on Mars.)

Study Questions:

1) What features on the Earth would you want to use to create a Vistapro movie?
2) What areas of the Earth are unaccessible to humans? Describe how we could use 3-D models to study them.

Background:
Digital elevation maps are now available of the Earth above and below sea level.

Activity Sheets:
Student Activity sheet can be downloaded and printed from HERE..