The Amazing Biology Race

1
The Amazing Biology Race
Teacher Guide
Overview- This activity is an alternative to a
typical in class biology test review. Once the
class is outside, each group of students will be
given a GPS unit with preset waypoints on it. All
groups will begin at the same time and navigate
to whatever waypoint they would like. When they
get to the waypoint they will take a biology test
review question from the box and return to the
teacher. The students will read the question out
loud and answer it. If it is correct they will be
allowed to proceed to another waypoint. If it is
incorrect they will need to consult their
textbook to find the answer. The group that
navigates to all the waypoints and answers all of
the questions first will be the winning group. I
have found that this is one of my biology classes
favorite activities. It is important to explain,
a few days before the review, what the activity
will consists of. I have found that this is a
motivator for increasing the amount of studying
the students will do prior to the GPS review
activity. Oklahoma Pass Objectives- Dependant
on the material covered on the test. National
Science Education Standards- Dependant on the
material covered on the test. Grade Level- The
activity was designed for high school biology but
can be used with any grade level and any
subject. GPS Skill Level- Students will need to
know how to use a Garmin Etrex Legend or similar
GPS unit. Other Skills Involved- None Time
Requirements- One 45 minute period
Teacher Guide p. 1
2
The Amazing Biology Race
Teacher Guide
Materials- Each group of students will need a GPS
unit. Each waypoint will need a cardboard box or
other container with biology test review
questions in it. Some type of reward or prize can
also be given to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place
groups.
Lesson Preparation- Before the activity,
waypoints will need to be taken around the
outdoor school property. The number of waypoints
will depend on the number of test review
questions you would like to have the students
answer. Once you have your waypoints on a single
unit you will need to upload them to all of the
units you will be using for the activity. One GPS
unit per 2 students is ideal but group size can
vary depending on the number of GPS units you
have. Prior to the activity place review
questions in a box at each waypoint.
Do not place your waypoints near roads or other
hazardous areas.
Teacher Guide p. 2