Reading a Bathymetric Map (Depth Chart)

Objectives:

1. Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of a bathymetric map.
2. Students will be able to give correct depth readings at certain points of a given lake.

Materials Needed:

• Computers connected to the Internet
• Lakes Worksheet #SS-1a (Depth Chart) and/or
  Lakes Worksheet #SS-1b (Depth Chart)

Activity:

The two worksheets require the same skills except that Lakes Worksheet #SS-1a is simpler and easier to do. Lakes Worksheet #SS-1b is designed for older students or those needing a challenge.

Hand out the worksheet you have chosen to each student. Discuss how such a map is constructed and what each of the lines represents. Mention that the lake bottom that exists between any two lines is sloped between the depths noted on the lines.

Have the students observe the symbols that have been placed on the map. The students should note the depth of the lake at the point of that symbol. There is a place for the students to record their answers.

Extensions:

Have students create their own bathymetric maps of an imaginary lake, put symbols on it as in the worksheet, and then exchange them among themselves.

Out of clay, modeling clay, or plasticene, have students create a "lake bottom". Have them draw a bathymetric map for this created lake bottom.