Defines the study of geography and the four traditions of the discipline: (1) earth science, (2) man-land relationships, (3) area studies, and (4) spatial orientation. Proposes some appropriate questions and problems for students to investigate and provides basic guidelines for carrying out a geography project. (JDH)

Geography is a subject that introduces students to some elementary notions of the world and, while it draws upon other disciplines, reorganizes the substance to encourage students to look at the phenomena of the world in its interrelations. Geography can contribute to the knowledge base required for world citizenship. (RM)

As an example of strategies that middle grade teachers can use to teach about a country using a standard textbook, a lesson on Canada is presented. The lesson is made up of four parts: geographic overview of Canada, identification and simplification of landscape, exploration and settlement, and elements of Canadian culture. (RM)

Describes activities for elementary social studies designed to stimulate student interest in maps and globes. For example, students study geographic regions where friends and relatives live. They locate food production, manufacturing areas, and places they have visited on maps. (AM)

Argues that American Government courses offer opportunities for teaching geographic knowledge and skills. Shows how government and geography can be integrated. Concludes that geography must be included at every level of the social studies curriculum. (RKM)

Contends that geographic literacy should not be taught in isolation but integrated with content. Recommends the use of children's literature to motivate students and enrich instruction. Describes how children's literature can be used to teach the 5 themes of geography and includes a list of 24 recommended books. (CFR)

Presented is a model for teaching elementary students how to associate place names with their referents on a map. The model has six steps: motivate, demonstrate, mnemonic devices, practice, test, and review. Described is a sample lesson for teaching about western states. (RM)

Examined is the evolution of Greece in the context of demographic, geopolitical, and historical factors. The international personality of Greece today is discussed. (RM)

Presents results of a study of knowledge of place location among preservice and inservice teachers. Reports finding a better place vocabulary among inservice teachers and a relationship between correct responses and the proximity of the target state to the subject's home state. Concludes that university attendance did not affect results whereas…

Provides educational resources for teaching geography from the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC). Includes units on the Model United Nations, China, Middle America, and the United States. Resources stress themes of economic, political, and social interactions and interdependence. Provides simulations, maps, sample tests, and lesson…

Describes the 1988 adoption of the Quality Core Curriculum (QCC) by the Georgia Board of Education. Discusses the QCC's role in defining and developing the study of geography within the social studies curriculum. Identifies and analyzes four as essential elements in a social studies program: knowledge, skills, attitudes/values, and social…

Asserts that state history and geography can become dull if the textbook is not supplemented. Suggests that the study of state history should include (1) the student's sense of value in their own region; (2) awareness of significant events there; and (3) an appreciation for the region's uniqueness. Illustrates several classroom activities to…

Home, school, neighborhood, and community studies offer unique opportunities for teachers to initiate youngsters into observing and recording phenomena. Because fuel costs make trips increasingly expensive, an alternative method is suggested for observing and recording data about the local community. (Author/IS)

Identifies teachers as primarily responsible for increasing geographic literacy, and suggests newspapers as a valuable source for geography lessons. Gives lesson plan ideas that include the use of the sports, news, travel, and weather sections of the paper. Lessons should enhance appreciation and knowledge of geography in everyday life. (RW)

Discusses the educational benefits of map usage in social studies classrooms. Recommends approaches to teaching map skills, including instruction in location, distance, scale, and direction. Presents activities which utilize neighborhood resources. Describes an activity in which students devise maps of their local community. (RW)