Maps and images are examined, compared and contrasted in this introductory lesson. Beginning with the school building map typically posted in their classroom, students analyze the information it contains, describe its features, and determine its... (View More) purpose. Students then examine maps at different scales to compare and contrast the amount of detail and the purposes. Maps are then compared to NASA satellite images. The use of satellite images to measure and map land usage is explored through images of Las Vegas taken in 1972 and 1992 (note: see Related & Supplemental Resources for link to more current images). The URL opens to the investigation Directory, with links to teacher and student materials, lesson extensions, resources, teaching tips, and assessment strategies. Note that this is investigation two of four found in the Grades K-4 Module 1 of Mission Geography. The Mission Geography curriculum integrates data and images from NASA missions with the National Geography Standards. Each of the four investigations in Module 1, while related, can be done independently. (View Less)