RW03 — Route Distance and Elevation Profile Using Google Earth
Learning Objectives
- Trace an assigned or proposed route using Google Earth.
- Determine route length and interpret the elevation profile along the path.
- Identify significant high, low, steep, and potentially earthwork-sensitive portions.
Activity Scope
Create a path between defined points, record total route distance, inspect the elevation profile, identify starting/ending/high/low elevations, describe major grade changes, and prepare an annotated route map plus a concise engineering interpretation of terrain implications.
Submission Requirement
Research Work is due on the next class meeting and is handwritten. Required route maps and elevation-profile screenshots may be printed and attached.
Placeholder Status
Route-selection constraints, station interval, gradient calculations, screenshot format, and grading criteria will be expanded later.
RW03 — Required Data Tabulation
Use this structure as the minimum field or research data table. Add columns when the activity requires more detail.
Include route start/end coordinates, total traced distance, highest and lowest elevations, and the Google Earth elevation-profile screenshot/printout.
RW03 — Grading Rubric
Award points according to the evidence shown for each criterion.
| Criterion | Full-credit evidence | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Route selection and digital trace | Route is clearly defined, reproducible, and traced accurately between documented endpoints. | 5 |
| Distance and elevation data | Total distance, sample/station elevations, high/low points, and profile data are complete and correctly tabulated. | 4 |
| Grade and profile analysis | Elevation differences, representative grades, steep segments, and profile interpretation are mathematically and technically sound. | 5 |
| Civil-engineering interpretation | Discussion identifies terrain implications such as access, likely cut/fill, drainage, or alignment constraints without overstating Google Earth accuracy. | 3 |
| Handwritten presentation | Calculations and interpretation are handwritten, legible, organized, and supported by the required printed/digital profile. | 3 |
| Total | 20 / 20 | |
Scoring guide: full credit for complete, technically correct, traceable evidence; reduce proportionally for minor errors, incomplete work, or weak documentation.
Key Takeaways
- A route must be interpreted in both plan and profile.
- Digital terrain information supports reconnaissance but does not replace field verification.