Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 9 to 12

Introduction

To manage weeds effectively, weed managers must know the location of weeds and the effectiveness of weed management practices. Almost every weed management district in the country uses GIS and GPS technology to map the location of weeds. Students may assist in the weed-mapping process if they understand how to use and apply these technologies. Students will acquire a rudimentary introduction to GIS and GPS technology. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.

Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: advanced placement biology

Introduction

ArcView, developed by Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI), is one brand of GIS desktop software that allows you to manage and analyze geographical data. Many government agencies use ArcView software. Students will become familiar with the basic features and functions of ArcView software. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available. Teach this lesson after the lesson Introduction to GIS/GPS.

Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 9 to 12

Introduction

GPS technology is an exciting field that offers many career opportunities. Students will learn about basic features that are available on most GPS receivers. Use this lesson as a stand-alone activity or an introduction to a weed-mapping project. If you use this lesson as an introduction to a weed-mapping project, follow this lesson with the Weed Mapping lesson. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.

For in-depth information about GPS technology, navigation, using a GPS receiver and map, and more, see Resources later in this lesson. Before beginning this lesson, students should already know how to identify at least ten local weed species. If necessary, review weed identification information before teaching this lesson.

Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 9 to 12

Introduction

After learning about the nuisance that weeds have become, students often want to know how they can make a positive contribution to the weed problem. This lesson provides one example of how students may help. Students will apply skills learned in previous lessons to plan a weed-mapping project and conduct the project. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson, plan carefully, and make sure all materials are available.