One of the definitions of biodiversity, which has many definitions, is the differences between living things or the diversity of life forms in the world. According to another definition, biodiversity is a group of wholes formed by genes, species, ecosystems and ecological events in a region. The importance of biodiversity is gradually increasing…

Environmental education is best achieved through the established disciplines among which geography has a major role to play. Implications for curricula are contained in the concepts, models and content of contemporary geography which possesses a wealth of potential relevance of applied through wise selection of strategies and materials. (Author)

Suggests that teachers must discover how geography can provide students with an understanding of the contemporary world in which they live. Describes the basic task of geography in general education as providing the basic understandings of human use of the earth. (DK)

Recommends ways in which teachers of geography on the high school and college level can decide which parts of the world are particularly suitable for study and can select appropriate issues and events to meet course objectives. Presents a list of 50 topics which are suitable for study from 1981 to 2000. (DB)

Suggests a teaching method (the Visual Response System, VRS) for use in teaching geography concepts to students in high school social studies classes. The purpose of the VRS is to increase the level of active student response to instructional material. A program based on VRS map skills is described. (DB)

Designates steps to be taken at all stages of the map production process from planning to printing. Pointers include making sure that the map is essential rather than purely decorative; considering the audience for whom the map is intended; determining the primary message that the map is intended to convey; and considering the dimensions of the…

Suggests a way to resolve conflicts among college level teachers of geography regarding what should be taught in introductory human geography courses. The method centers on a list of core concepts which could be taught in all sections of the course. Concepts, selected through analysis of commonly used textbooks, include agriculture, industry, land…

Focuses on the 11th grade geography curriculum which was introduced into Australian schools in 1974. Outlines the background, objectives, structure, and content of the curriculum syllabus. For journal availability, see SO 505 212. (Author/DB)

Materials to use in geography instruction and ways to evaluate student learning in geography are described. Portfolios are a good way to determine whether students have achieved the desired objectives in geography. Portfolios also require that the student be involved in both learning and assessment. For learning to use maps and globes, student…

As a means of helping students build map skills, the article presents information on how the energy crisis affects poor people in developing nations (lack of firewood, disappearing forests, erosion due to removal of ground cover). Presents a global map showing the extension of desert conditions and includes questions to help students analyze the…

Unit and student objectives are described for a teaching unit which familiarizes elementary students with career opportunities in the travel industry while introducing geographical concepts and skills. The goal is to present knowledge that students can apply when traveling with family and friends. (Author/AV)

How social influences have affected ideas current in the teaching of geography and recent developments in the field is examined. A case is made for change in the content and objectives of geography instruction. (RM)

Suggests how to use remote sensing techniques and data in geography courses in high school and college as well as in geography research. Tips are presented on using techniques such as topographic maps, vertical aerial photographs in stereo pairs, satellite images, and SLAR images (which are particularly useful in teaching landforms and…