The field of research in physical geography relates to subjects such as place-shaping, climatic events, soil formation, vegetation development, the water cycle, and the nature and use of natural resources including underground mining processes. In order for humans to survive and facilitate their daily lives, they must have sufficient knowledge…

The purpose of this study was to create a culturally relevant, inquiry-based science lesson plan and examine how I can become a more culturally relevant educator. This was done first through the use of seminal frameworks in both pedagogies to examine similarities and differences. Secondly, eight experts in the fields were interviewed to gather…

In this study done at a community college in South Florida, the achievements of students who spoke English as their second language who had attended their K-12 education outside the United States in their home countries, in a U.S. college course on world geography are compared with the achievements of students in the same classes who spoke English…

Greenways are prominent features of many urban landscapes and synthesize several geographic topics: human-environment interactions, urban ecosystems, and the promotion of sustainability within riverine corridors. Greenways are easily accessible and provide an opportunity for students at various grade levels to study interactions across physical…

"The Geography Teacher" provides hands-on reference and educative material for K-12 Geography teachers. The journal also pioneers innovative ideas for contemporary teaching methods, including lesson plans. This issue contains the following: (1) Ask Dr. de Blij (Harm de Blij); (2) Geography: Is it a Boy's Subject? (Lisa Smitreski); (3) A…

This paper explores the uses of true landform miniatures and small-scale analogues and suggests ways to teach geomorphological concepts using small-scale relief features as illustrative examples. (JDH)

The historical destinies of all nations have been strongly conditioned by their geographic setting and their natural environment. Intended as background information for teachers, geographical features of the USSR are discussed. (RM)

Knowing place names is not the essence of geography, but some knowledge of names of geographical locations is widely considered to be basic information. Whether used in general cultural literacy, lighthearted Trivial Pursuit, educational sixth grade social studies, or serious debates on world events, place names and their locations are assumed to…

Maintains that the study of catastrophic events should be given temporary precedence over the normal curriculum in order to help students understand the causes, consequences, and recovery alternatives, deal with trauma, and allay fear of recurrence and feelings of helplessness. Uses the May 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens to demonstrate how…

Discusses the challenges confronting plate tectonics. Presents evidence that contradicts continental drift, seafloor spreading, and subduction. Reviews problems posed by vertical tectonic movements. (Contains 242 references.) (DDR)

Recounts problems related to the law of the sea and suggests that these problems could be dealt with in the classroom in an interdisciplinary manner. Problems include pollution control, fishing rights, development of deep sea mineral deposits, and shore access. (Author/DB)

Defines and describes the various functional parts of a beach. Provides a diagram of a shore profile and identifies major beach regions. A list of reference readings for teachers is included. (ML)

Australia is the world's driest continent. One-third of the country's area is unsuitable for any land use, while another third is suitable only for cattle and sheep grazing. Australia's physical geography, weather conditions, wildflowers, and wildlife are discussed. (RM)

Orientation is a deeply felt human need that can be used to interest students in geography. It can develop spatial competence and introduce topics in social geography. (AM)

To prevent increasing personal injuries and property loss, teachers need to educate themselves and their students about geological hazards. The author discusses earthquakes, downslope movement, dam failures, shoreline erosion, and other geologic hazards. Information on suggested teacher resources is provided. (DS)