This paper illustrates how sports can be used to teach geographic concepts, using illustrative examples from the Kansas City area. Given the global popularity of sport and its impacts and links to environment, economy, and culture, it is surprising that more attention has not been paid to sport as a vehicle for the conceptualization and teaching…

A teaching strategy to achieve adequate understanding of topographic maps is presented. It is founded upon a group of integrated illustrations that take the learner from data gathering to the final map. The strategy is applicable from elementary through college. (NH)

A given discipline and the relationships contained within it are frequently portrayable in diagrammatic or schematic form. The model offered in this article may serve to convey ideas on organization and purpose in geography by showing basic elements and relationships. (Author)

Kites allow teachers to illustrate wind patterns by calling on past experience and by present demonstration. Features of the wind illustrated by kites--the effect of surface friction on wind speed, change of wind direction with elevation, gust and lull sequence, and atmospheric stability and turbulence type--are discussed. (SR)

This article examines the results of an online national survey of K-12 educators who attended a series of GIS training workshops conducted by the authors between 1998 and 2004. Data from the self-report survey (N = 186) suggest new information about potential changes in instruction and assessment patterns following GIS training. The survey…

States that the Model United Nations (M.U.N.) is a colorful and stimulating way to teach geography and help secondary school students overcome their indifference to classroom instruction. Outlines the procedures for implementing the M.U.N. in a classroom situation and indicates how it addresses the fundamental themes in geography. (Author/GEA)

In shifting emphasis from accumulation of facts to methods of investigation and cognitive skills, the concept of ecosystem is a powerful organizing principle for geography. The connectivity of all things in an environment, the flow of energy through the system are stressed. The use of ecosystem as a framework for inquiry in the classroom is…

Geographers need to become aware of self-determination. The evolution of meanings and patterns of self-determination, contemporary opinions on the principle, and changes in politico-territorial definitions that will arise as the principle continues to be applied are discussed. Self-determination will remain a powerful geopolitical force. (SR)

Discusses software that educators can use to teach about distortions associated with alternative map projections. Examines the Projection, MicroCAM, World, and Atlas-GIS software programs. Suggests using the software in either introductory or more advanced courses dealing with map design or thematic cartography. Explains how to obtain the…

A study of toy-play mapping by three-, four-, and five-year-old children demonstrates that children can clearly represent a cognitive map at the age of three. Mapping, therefore, is developmentally primitive and formal map learning can begin at the age of school entrance. (JH)

The purpose of this paper is to promote a better understanding of contour map lines and the mental visualization of the topographic forms that they represent by detailing 17 principles of contour map reading and illustrating them with computer-generated, three-dimensional maps. (Author/BSR)

Monthly maps of low pressure centers are presented here to attempt a concrete representation that may help students to understand the seasonal change from dry months to wet months along the mid-latitude west coast as a seasonal north-south migration of factors controlling rain and drought. (Author/JH)

Explains how a simulation of aerial photography can help students in a college level beginning course on interpretation of aerial photography understand the interrelationships of the airplane, the camera, and the earth's surface. Procedures, objectives, equipment, and scale are discussed. (DB)

Discusses the proper use of themes in teaching. Examines the five themes of geography: location, place, interaction, movement, and region. Presents counterpoints demonstrating the value of analogies as a less direct way of introducing a theme. Argues that teaching is an art and a craft requiring diplomacy and creativity. (DK)

Discusses ways in which planetary comparisons can be used to help give students a new perspective on earth's natural environment. Describes tectonism, volcanism, gradation, cratering, wind, and temperature as they are affected by different planetary conditions. Includes a chart comparing average surface temperatures and greenhouse warming of three…