I recently learned how to use the ‘My Maps’ tool in Google Maps. I have been using Google Maps for years but I had never known I could create my own maps! This blog post will focus on how to use Google My Maps and then how to incorporate it into the classroom.
![](https://blogs.stockton.edu/futureteacherblog/files/2020/03/Google_maps_logo.png)
Using Google My Maps
This is a quick and easy tutorial that I used to help me learn how to create my first map.
What I Created
From this tutorial, I made this map on places to visit in New York City. In my map, I added 2 base layers: one of the places I ate and another on places I visited. I think that my map can be helpful for anyone looking to visit NYC and does not know what to do or where to eat.
In the Classroom
Since maps are a fundamental part of life, I think it is also important to incorporate them into the classroom. With Google My Maps, standard, paper mapping activities can be taken to the next level. One way I think this can be done is by having students map where historical events took place. This combines geography and history and creates a hands-on approach while doing so.
Another way to incorporate Google My Maps in the classroom is by calculating the rate of travel. Students can pin 2 or more locations then figure out how long it takes to arrive by walking, public transportation, car and more.
![](https://blogs.stockton.edu/futureteacherblog/files/2020/03/14785688047_a559dfcc04_z-1.jpg)
Overall, I think Google My Maps is a great tool for the classroom or anyone in general!
Thank you for reading my blog post! Feel free to follow my twitter @cooper_jenna1.