Geographic information literacy (GIL) is defined as the possession of concepts, abilities and habits of mind that allow an individual to understand and use geographic information properly. This paper reports the results of an online survey undertaken to get expert input into specifying the concepts and abilities associated with GIL that should be…

Students must develop skills in map reading, map interpretation, and mapping in order to use maps and globes effectively. Presents a compilation of basic map skills and concepts, along with techniques and "tips" for teaching map skills to grades six through eleven. (CS)

Presents activities that enable students to determine the exact time of midday and to use this to plot a north-south line. Uses shadow experiments to teach the concepts of rotation of the earth and calculation of latitude. (JRH)

Presents the results of a survey of books that every preservice (and inservice) geography teacher should read as recommended by leading geographic educators. Maintains that the diversity of responses mirrors the eclectic nature of geographic educators and the richness of the field. Includes brief bibliographical reviews of five recommended books.…

Describes five themes of geography used as a model for generating classroom activities in an integrated teaching approach. Uses James Michener's book, "Texas," to demonstrate the integration of geography and literature. Includes a teaching outline, class activities, and lessons plans for a five-day unit. (NL)

States that firsthand observations of the dynamic process that shapes landforms are important to understanding physical geography. Posits that locally planned, short-duration field exercises to study miniature or fourth-order landforms will enhance instruction about these fundamental geographic concepts. (DB)

Discusses the social studies requirements of Sidney High School (Ohio) and the place of geography in the curriculum. Maintains the importance of geography. Outlines several world geography activities used at the school including supermarket geography that teaches students the origin of their food. (RW)

Demonstrates how Geographical Information Systems (GIS) can help develop student skills that enhance learning. Describes the application of GIS within secondary geography education, providing an example of its use at the Windaroo Valley State High School (Australia). Discusses GIS and geographic literacy. (CMK)

GeoScape is a landscape design consisting of colored gravel, strategically placed flagstone and boulders, and two vertical features that simulate the geology of fictitious regions. Employs "hands-on", inquiry-based, and cooperative learning techniques to help students develop problem solving and critical thinking skills. Explains the construction,…

This issue of the curriculum bulletin deals with the use of maps and globes. Eight topics are discussed in this publication: How Maps and Globes Are Used in Problem Solving, Inquiry, and Discovery Learning; Developing Skills Using Globes; Making Flat Maps; Guiding Concept Development of Map Symbolism; Guiding Development of Distance Concepts…

Lessons involve K-12 students in analyzing teacher-developed state and local thematic maps, identifying countries of the world with which their city has a linkage as indicated by local ethnic restaurants, discussing local companies involved in international trade, and learning about foreign-made products in their home and community. (RM)

Geography textbooks are evaluated to determine the relationship between the subject matter of geography and the changing concerns of society. Suggests that teachers should deal openly with values, which are inherent in geography content and methods. Journal available from Business Manager, Geographical Education, Sydney Teachers College, P.O. Box…

Provides 10 class activities for primary grade students on the five themes of geography. Activities cover location, place, human and environment interaction, movement, and region. (LS)

Offers suggestions about what to teach within the five themes of geography in California's History-Social Science Framework (1988). States that the use of these themes (location, place, relationships, movement, and regions) along with the 15 basic concepts of geography provide a structure for understanding the substance of geography and its…

Questions value of the National Geography Bee proposed by the National Geographic Society because the public may see geography content as unrelated facts; students may not be motivated; and content can be trivialized. Encourages group competitions that focus on conceptual and regional themes combined with societal, environmental, and locational…