This children’s article, A kids’ guide to GPS: how we never get lost anymore, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children build vocabulary, learn about technology, and understand how GPS works. Written by Mark Pulley, a teacher and writer who creates fun and informative news articles for English learners.
What is GPS?
GPS stands for Global Positioning System. It’s a network of satellites high above the Earth that helps us find out exactly where we are. You use it every time you follow directions on a phone or watch a delivery van come closer to your house.
It works anywhere on the planet, whether you’re in a busy city, a forest, or even sailing on the ocean. With GPS, people don’t need to worry so much about getting lost, because the system can guide them back on track.
How does it work?
The GPS satellites send signals down to Earth all the time. Devices like phones, cars, and watches pick up those signals and measure how long they take to arrive. Using this timing, GPS can figure out your position within just a few metres.
It’s a bit like having invisible triangles drawn from the sky to your location. When enough satellites connect with your device, the system can tell exactly where you are, whether you’re standing still or moving fast.
Who invented GPS and why?
The idea for GPS began with the United States military in the 1970s. They wanted a navigation tool for planes, ships, and submarines so they could travel safely and accurately. At first, only the military could use it.
Later, GPS was opened up to the public. That means today, everyone can benefit from it, not just soldiers. Other countries have created their own versions, but the American GPS system is still the most widely used worldwide.
Why is it useful today?
GPS has thousands of uses. It helps drivers find the fastest route, lets aeroplanes fly safely, and guides ships across oceans. Farmers use it to steer tractors, and athletes use it to track how far and fast they run.
Even pets sometimes wear GPS collars so their owners can find them if they wander off. From space satellites to everyday smartphones, GPS has become one of the most helpful inventions in modern life.
Article vocabulary list
- GPS: A system that shows your location anywhere on Earth.
- Satellite: A machine in space that orbits around the Earth.
- Signal: A message sent from one place to another, like from a satellite to a phone.
- Position: Your exact location or place.
- Military: The army, navy, or air force of a country.
- Navigate: To plan or find the way to a place.
- Device: A piece of equipment like a phone, watch, or computer.
- Collar: A band worn around an animal’s neck.
Comprehension questions
Just click the plus (+) to see the answer
1. What does GPS stand for?
A) Global Power System
B) Global Positioning System
C) General Planetary Signals
Answer: B) Global Positioning System
2. How does GPS work out your position?
A) By measuring how fast you walk
B) By timing signals from satellites
C) By looking at maps on your phone
Answer: B) By timing signals from satellites
3. Who first invented GPS?
A) Delivery drivers
B) Farmers
C) The United States military
Answer: C) The United States military
4. Which of these is NOT something GPS is used for?
A) Flying aeroplanes
B) Driving cars
C) Playing music
Answer: C) Playing music
5. Why might a pet wear a GPS collar?
A) So their owners can find them
B) To stop it from barking
C) To look fashionable
Answer: A) So their owners can find
Mark is a writer and EFL teacher from England with eight years’ experience. He’s passionate about travel, sport (especially football), animals, nature, and history, and enjoys helping children explore the world through language and learning.
