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How to Make an Earth Model Using a Big Ball

Not many people get a chance to observe the Earth in its entirety, as this can only be done from space. This makes using a globe a practical method of modeling the Earth. Purchasing a globe is always an option, but constructing a globe is simple and can also be used as a learning activity. There are a variety of methods to making a model of the Earth, but the most straightforward begins with a ball.

Things You'll Need

Old newspaper
Blue spray paint
9-inch polystyrene ball
Fine point black marker
Scissors
Glue
Picture of each continent

Instructions

- 1
  Place six or more sheets of old newspaper over your work surface. This protects the surface from being covered with paint.
- 2
  Put the polystyrene ball on top of the newspaper and then spray it with blue paint. Rotate the ball on the newspaper to cover the entire surface with paint. Allow the ball to dry as recommended on the paint can label.
- 3
  Draw a dotted line around the center of the globe using the maker. This represents the Equator.
- 4
  Add color and details to the pictures of the continents based on what you know about the terrain or region. For example, put a dot and write the name of cities or color the continent brown to represent land and green to depict forest.
- 5
  Cut out the picture of the continents and then glue them to the ball. Ensure that relative placement of the continents are accurate, i.e. North America is placed above South America. Look at a picture of the Earth for reference.

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