The United States Geological Survey (USGS) publishes about 57,000 topographic maps, many of which can be downloaded for free. These maps may be used in a variety of science, math, geography, and history classroom settings, from elementary to college level. Here, educators looking for inspiration can check out a number of ideas about how to utilize these maps as a lesson or classroom activity. These ideas range from activities that introduce and engage students with the basics of mapping (such as latitude and longitude, coordinate systems, and projecting) to activities that facilitate exploration of what topographic maps can reveal about geographic and social change over time and the relationships between humans and land. In addition, this page includes links to three full K-12 lesson plans and a printable Topographic Map Symbols guide.