GPS Study Sheet

Grade 4

For the test you should know:

GPS stands for Global Positioning System

• A GPS unit is an electronic device that can determine your approximate location almost anywhere on the planet
• The GPS uses a system of 24 satellites to calculate your position.
• If the GPS can’t see the satellites (like when you are in a building) it won’t work. Some things like cloud cover, trees, hills, or holding it upside down also make it less accurate.
• When the GPS calculates your position it gives you your latitude and longitude.
• A GPS can tell you how fast you are going.

In the real world the GPS is used by:

• The military
• Boaters and fisherman
• Farmers
• Geocachers (an online game)
• Delivery people
• Services like OnStar that help you navigate your car
• Airline pilots

Extra credit:

The name of our Travel Bug is Blue Blaster.