geoGreeting is a fun Web 2.0 tool that allows users to create and send messages composed of letters formed by aerial shots of buildings found in the satellite view of Google Maps.  Here’s how it works:  Submit your message of 40 characters or less and geoGreeting finds your images and spells out the greeting which can be shared with others via a link and/or email the message. When one of these options is opened, the message is spelled out one letter at a time through pictures embedded on a map of the world.  Each picture is accompanied by a map pin that shows the location of each letter/building (and in some cases, the name of the building).

Check out an example I created here.

Classroom Connection:

Looking for a geography lesson with a twist?  Then be sure to experiment with geoGreeting!  Here are a few suggestions for integrating this nifty gadget into your classroom:

• Students could submit their name (or another message) and then discuss, explore and/or research the areas and buildings used to generate their message.
• Display a message to your students using an interactive whiteboard or projector. Just enter your info then once the message is created, copy the URL into a browser to play it.
• Practice spelling and/or vocabulary words.  Not only would students get practice spelling the words, but they can also use the preview button to watch the word being spelled for them.
• Spark an interest in U.S. and World Geography by discussing the places that pop up as a result of entering a message.