Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to identify and understand the different time zones in the United States.

Materials and Prep

Materials needed: World map or globe

Prep: Familiarize yourself with the different time zones in the United States.

Activities

1. Time Zone Mapping: Using a world map or globe, locate and mark the different time zones in the United States.

2. Time Zone Quiz: Create a quiz with questions about the time differences between specific states in different time zones.

3. Time Zone Discussion: Research and discuss why time zones exist and how they are determined.

Talking Points

• Time zones help us keep track of time across different regions. Remember, as you move east, you gain time, and as you move west, you lose time.
• Did you know that the United States has six main time zones: Eastern, Central, Mountain, Pacific, Alaska, and Hawaii-Aleutian?
• Each time zone is roughly 15 degrees of longitude wide, which means there is a one-hour time difference between adjacent time zones.
• States like Arizona and Hawaii do not observe Daylight Saving Time, so they remain on the same standard time throughout the year.
• Time zones were established to make travel and communication easier. Imagine how confusing it would be if everyone in the world followed the same time!