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Google Maps now lets you find fresh air

Google Maps - Level 4

Google Maps has lots of useful features. It plans routes and provides real-time directions. It also gives traffic information, restaurant reviews, and lots more. Its latest tool is its Air Quality Index (AQI). Before going on a picnic, camping trip or hike, you can check the air quality. Google said we can check "conditions – like whether it's unusually smoggy". It is "a measure of how healthy (or unhealthy) the air is".

The new air quality feature is on the Layers icon on Google Maps. This is where the satellite and street views are. Google said: "We collaborate closely with partners in the weather and air quality space to [provide] helpful and authoritative information.…We hope these tools help you feel safe and informed." The AQI also provides updated information on the health impact of air quality. In addition, there is a "wildfires near me" feature to advise people on fires.

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Google Maps - Level 5

Google Maps has a wealth of useful features. Besides showing our location, it plans routes and provides real-time directions. It also gives traffic information, restaurant reviews, and lots more. Google has just unveiled its latest tool. Users can now click on its Air Quality Index (AQI) before going on a picnic, camping trip or hike. Google's blog stated: "When you're visiting a new place or planning outdoor activities, it can be helpful to know the air quality conditions – like whether it's unusually smoggy." It added that its new AQI is, "a measure of how healthy (or unhealthy) the air is."

The new feature is a "layer" on Google Maps. Users tap on the same Layers icon as they do to select the satellite or street view modes. There will be an option to see air quality information. Google said: "We collaborate closely with partners in the weather and air quality space to [provide] helpful and authoritative information.…We hope these tools help you feel safe and informed." The AQI will also provide updated information on the health impact of air quality. In addition, there is a "wildfires near me" feature to alert and advise people on the status of fires.

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11 online activities    |    8-page printable   (PDF)

Google Maps - Level 6

Google Maps already boasts a wealth of useful features for users. Besides showing people where they are, it plans routes, provides real-time spoken directions, street views, traffic and footfall information, restaurant reviews and a whole lot more. Google has just unveiled its latest tool. Users can now click on its Air Quality Index (AQI) before heading out for a bike ride, picnic, camping trip or hike. Google's products blog stated: "When you're visiting a new place or planning outdoor activities, it can be helpful to know the air quality conditions – like whether it's unusually smoggy." It added that its new AQI is, "a measure of how healthy (or unhealthy) the air is, along with guidance for outdoor activities."

The new feature is a "layer" on Google Maps. To view it, users tap on the "Layers" icon in the top right corner of the screen. This is the same button for selecting the satellite or street view modes. Users will see the new option to see air quality information on their map. Google said: "We collaborate closely with partners in the weather and air quality space to surface helpful and authoritative information when you need it most.…We hope these tools help you feel safe and informed so you can enjoy the summer." The AQI will also provide updated information on the health impact of the air quality. In addition, there is a "wildfires near me" feature to alert, update and advise people on the status of fires.

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25 online activities    |    27-page printable    |    2-page mini-lesson