This class is designed for students who are curious about the physical characteristics (rivers, lakes, oceans, mountains, canyons, plateaus, islands, glaciers, volcanoes, peninsulas, climates, etc.) and human characteristics (customs, religions, monuments, history, types of government, etc.) found throughout the world.  Students will also develop a mental map of countries, capitals, cities, and regions of the world.  There is a lot to discover for those who are ready to “travel the world” and examine the geography of all seven continents.

Students will be provided with weekly lesson notes and can anticipate biweekly quizzes and map activities that evaluate their understanding of what is learned in class.  Students will also be assigned one, possibly two, fun and engaging research assignments.  If time permits, volunteers will be asked to share their assignment(s) in class.  All research assignments include a  rubric and will receive personal feedback and a grade.

Meeting 1  
	Introduction and expectations
	What is geography?
	Branches and themes of geography 
	Continents and oceans
	Geography of Africa

Meeting 2
       Population density
       World climates
       Absolute and relative location
       Geography of Africa

Meeting 3
	Map projections and types of maps
	The influence of human activity on geography
        Geography of Europe

Meeting 4
	Types of boundaries (physical, cultural)
	The geographic grid (latitude, longitude)
        Research assignment
        Geography of Europe
        
Meeting 5
	Topography of the earth (landforms)
	Time zones
	Geography of Asia

Meeting 6
	Layers of the earth
	Continental and oceanic plates
        Geography of Asia

Meeting 7
	Major straits of the world
        Research assignment
	Geography of North America

Meeting 8
	Mountain building
	Volcanoes
        Geography of North America

Meeting 9
	Major deserts of the world
	Natural wonders of the world	
        Geography of South America

Meeting 10
	Earth’s resources and energy
        Earth’s hydrologic cycle
	Geography of South America

Meeting 11
       Earth’s atmosphere
       Cultural diffusion and food
       Geography of Australia/Oceania

Meeting 12
	Geography of Australia/Oceania
	Geography of Antarctica

My teaching style accommodates different learning styles (auditory, visual, kinesthetic).  Students can anticipate direct instruction, class discussion, teacher and peer interaction, interactive activities, and short video clips.