Discusses strategies for teaching controversial topics through an examination of the cultural and political geographic concept of iconography using as an example the recent debates over flying the Confederate flag this decade in the American South. Conveys that there is not a conclusive model or solution to teaching controversial topics. (CMK)

The Sanders housing lawsuit in Pennsylvania provides a case study of how to incorporate current events into the teaching of cartography or population geography at the high school or college level. Settlement of the Sanders case resulted in the release of information about the segregation of public housing by race in the Pittsburgh area. The issues…

Describes the journal assignment used in the introductory course, "Geography and Civilization", focusing on each type of journal entry (class entries, course pack entries, novel entries, and current events). Discusses the last two entries as constructed more as finished essays than informal writing. Presents the results from a class survey. (CMK)

A "maps in the news" unit can be used to help middle and junior high school students in many subject areas recognize basic map components and identify and analyze thematic maps while building writing skills. Prior to beginning the unit, the teacher introduces students to thematic maps, the parts of a map, and writing organization (topic…

Discusses the use of a shortwave radio in the geography classroom as a means of making instruction more meaningful to students. Presents a lesson plan, for use in elementary and secondary schools, which is designed to introduce students to various cultures, ideas, and information while activating interest in current events. (GEA)

Describes the somewhat contradictory movements towards political and economic integration and political decentralization in the European Union (EU). Discusses the implications of those trends for the future of the sovereign state, specifically for Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. Maintains that political power is being wrested away from core…