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  • General


    Human Geography

    Introductory Unit
    • Download a copy of this course. File 33.7MB Moodle backup

  • Topic 1

    Step 1- Introduction to Human Geography

    Intro to GeographyIn human geography we look at the world from a spatial perspective. To do this we need to have words that describe spatial phenomena. For this reason we start this unit with learning the definitions of some basic geographic vocabulary and how these words apply to the world we live in.

    Complete the following lessons to learn about and analyze the basic concepts of Human Geography.
    • 1. Introduction to Human Geography Vocabulary Sketches (Turn in) Assignment (2.2)
    • 2. Human Geography Introductory Unit Vocabulary Prezi and Questions (Turn in) With Screen Cast Option Assignment (2.2)
    • 3. Introduction to Human Geography Vocabulary Quiz
    • 4. Create an Introduction to Human Geography Vocabulary Prezi Assignment (2.2)
    • 5. Analyzing Demographic Statistics Using Gap Minder Web Site (Turn in) With "Jing" screen-cast instructions. Assignment (2.2)

  • Topic 2

    Step 2

    Current Events: Blogs,Discussion

    (Chat), and RSS Feeds

    Events in the world can be studied from different perspectives, including historical, political and spatial. In this class we will look at these current events from a spatial perspective. This means that we will examine the ways space is important to the event in question. For example boundaries may produce conflict, an oil spill may demonstrate the interconnectedness of places and the movement of ideas from place to place effects culture.

    Blog PicYou are required to create a current events blog for this unit. You will also be required to participate in one of our weekly chats during this unit. Check out the RSS feeds on Geography in this Moodle site to help you keep current on world issues.

    • Teachers: I have included an embedded video in this step. You will want to embed your own video of a current event for online discussion.
    • 1. Current Events Blog Assignment (2.2)
    • Join Chat Here: What's up in the world?
    • Current Events Video Topic for First Chat- BP Oil Spill Page

  • Topic 3

    Map Making PicStep 3

    Creating and Analyzing Maps


    Creating and analyzing maps is a big part of human geography. Geographers make maps to represent and explain spatial phenomena such as important features, travel routes, demographic characteristics and much more. In this unit you will make maps using Google Maps and other mapping applications.

    Complete the following map making assignments.
    • 1. Making Chloropleth Maps with American Fact Finder (U.S. Census Data) Presentation with Screencast of how to use American Fact Finder Assignment (2.2)
    • 2. Make an Activity Space Map Using Google Maps or Tripline.net Assignment (2.2)
    • 3. Create a Map Portfolio Using Prezi Assignment (2.2)
    • 4. Create Diffusion Maps Assignment (2.2)

  • Topic 4

    Step 4

    Final Student Assessment Options

    The final assessment for this unit will not be your typical memorization test. It will require you to use the knowledge you have gained about the basic concepts and terms in human geography and your knowledge of map making. You will demonstrate this knowledge by doing one of the 3 assessments below.

    Choose one of the assignments below to meet the requirements for the cumulative assessment for this unit.

    • Choice 1: Perform a Geographic Field Study of a Local Place Using Google Maps/My Maps Assignment (2.2)
    • Choice 2: Create a Prezi to Present a Field Study of a Local Place Assignment (2.2)
    • Choice 3: Geographic Tour of a Local Place - Pod Cast Assignment (2.2)
    • Teacher and Student Rubric For Cumulative Assessment (Prezi and Google Maps Options) Assignment (2.2)
    • Teacher and Student Rubric For Cumulative Assessment (Podcast Option) Assignment (2.2)
    • How to Create a Podcast Page

  • Topic 5

    National Geography Standards
    Check out this link to examine how the lessons from this unit align with the National Geography Standards.

    • Topic 6

      Technology Standards

      Check this link to examine how these lessons align with the National Technology Standards.

      • Topic 7

        Minnesota State Geography Standards

        Check out this link to examine how this unit aligns with the MN geography standards.

        • Topic 8

          For the Teacher:
          Explanation of this Unit
          This unit can be used as an introduction to a variety of human geography courses including AP, topic based or area studies. Its focus is basic geographic vocabulary and its application; map and graph making and interpretation; and geographic analysis of world events.

          In step 1, after learning the vocabulary by viewing a Prezi based presentation, students will create a presentation of their own to practice using the terms. Students will then take a quiz for points or for review to demonstrate an understanding of the meaning of the terms. Students will also use the website gapminder.org to make inferences about countries based on demographic data.

          In step 2 students will examine and discuss current world events from a geographic perspective. They will do this by creating a current events blog of world events. The blogging lesson will allow students to learn the skill of creating a blog and allow for informed discussion based on concepts that students have learned in this geography course. Students will also participate in a weekly current events online chat to learn more about world events from their peers and instructor.

          In step 3 students will make maps using a variety of technology. American Fact Finder is a website from the U.S. Census Bureau that students will use to make maps by choosing a city and a category of demographic data. Students can then interpret the maps and do correlative analysis (comparing two maps for relationships of the demographic statistics). Students will also use Google Maps "My Maps" to create an activity space map of one's daily or weekly activities. Students will make diffusion maps to demonstrate knowledge of 3 types of diffusion. Students will make a map portfolio using the Prezi presentation application to become familiar with different types of maps that will be used throughout the human geography course.

          In step 4 students will get a chance to show what they have learned by creating a map, presentation or podcast. The assessment will require students to use vocabulary terms from step 1 of this unit. They will do a geographic field study (they will go out into the community they live in)of a local area by using geographic concepts and their acquired technological skills.

          This unit is similar to the introductory unit I use in my AP and pre AP geography courses at Armstrong High School in Plymouth MN. The lessons have been modified or new ones have been created to emphasize the use of Web 20 and other technology. It can be used as a free standing online based unit or one can use parts of this either in the classroom or online.

          If you have any questions my email is
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