Take your students on a winter holidays adventure around the world! Using a combination of Google Earth™ 360-degree views, informational text, video, and visuals, your students will learn about and explore 8 different winter holiday events and traditions around the world. This low-prep, interactive activity is fully digital and is set up in Google Slides. This activity has been updated for the 2023 season!
Students will visit and learn about the following:
- Natal Luz (Brazil)
- Christkindlesmarkt (Germany)
- Gävlebocken (Sweden)
- Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (Finland)
- Eid al Maulid & Mmanwu (Nigeria)
- Kwanzaa (Southern Africa)
- Giant Lantern Festival (Philippines)
- Rockefeller Center (United States)
This Virtual Scavenger Hunt Includes:
:: Informational Text (build background knowledge)
:: Response Questions (EDITABLE)
:: Google Earth Links to 360-degree views
:: Video Links
:: Website links
:: Grading Rubric & Answer Keys
:: Everything is set up in Google Slides & ready to go!
How it Works:
This virtual scavenger hunt can be conducted teacher-led or shared with students through Google Classroom as an independent assignment. Everything is set up for you. This resource is LOW PREP and would even make great sub plans. Student directions are found within the lesson, and direct links are included to specific Google Earth™ locations and videos. All work is completed digitally. No printing necessary.
Structure:
This virtual activity is structured. This means that the informational text and links are meaningful and are meant to lead students to think critically as they respond to the questions throughout the scavenger hunt. This is also a great way to keep students accountable as they learn and explore. All response questions are EDITABLE, so you can tailor to your class needs.
Standards Alignment:
:: Common Core Standards for Reading Informational Text
:: Washington State Social Studies Standards for 6th grade
Grading Rubric & Answer Keys
A grading rubric is included which assesses: accuracy, thoroughness, validity, and writing conventions. An answer key is provided for student responses to questions that pertain to the various website and videos, but some answers will vary as students are recording their observations and findings.
Technology:
Please note that students will need to access Google Earth™ to complete this assignment. Google Earth™ can be accessed on a desktop using Chrome as the browser. If using a tablet or smartphone, simply download the Google Earth App before starting the virtual activity. Video links will take students to YouTube. Instructions are included within the activity for using closed captioning and how to translate websites to English if needed.
*Please note that there are many wonderful winter holiday destinations and attractions around the world. The seven locations included are not meant to be an all-inclusive list, but rather provide students an opportunity to explore several destinations around the world.
If you have questions, feel free to reach out prior to purchasing. Looking for another virtual activity that you don’t see? Let me know! I can be reached directly by email at: michellemcdonald9515@gmail.com
Thank you!
Michelle McDonald, B.A.E.
Social Studies Education, K-12
Elementary Education K-8