Mapping in Minecraft

Mrs. Kobren's 8th grade science classes were able to explore contour maps using the popular building game, Minecraft.  In this educational version of minecraft, students were transported to a world where they initially had to build the contour lines on the map.  After they completed that task, Mrs. Kobren had a discussion about the lines and what they mean on the map.  Students then were given the contour lines and had to build a new mountain based on the lines.  All in all, the experience expanded the students knowledge of topographical maps, and they scored higher than the other 8th grade students on the benchmark assessment questions that covered topographical maps than the other 8th grade students!