This literature review discusses the epistemology of geography and the rationale for including it in the curriculum. It then reviews research about geography learning and teaching. Efforts to reform the geography curriculum require understanding the core epistemological themes and concepts of geography. (SLD)

Geography is a key to understanding and acting effectively in our world. It is the subject that, more than any other, enables people to comprehend the earth and its environment, and to appreciate the delicate balances between the human and physical elements that bind people to this planet. However, more than half the children of the United States…

There is an important relationship between history and geography that needs greater emphasis in the social studies curriculum. By emphasizing the temporal and spatial relationships in geography and history, geographers can help develop curriculum that focuses upon the fundamental themes in geography, the relationship of the themes to the study of…

Territorial decentration is a question of major significance to geographic educators. This paper reports the findings of a research project designed to determine the territorial decentration of an American sample of children. The primary purpose of the research was to determine if Piaget's territorial decentration stages are appropriate for…

This guide for elementary grade teachers is intended to assist in: 1) planning for sequential development of basic skills and understandings in the use of maps and globes; 2) providing concrete experiences for children in primary grades which increase understanding and develop skill in the use of maps and globes; 3) providing extended experiences…

Ways in which geographic education lags behind recent developments in the field, as well as conceptual and practical suggestions for bringing it up to date are discussed in this document. Unlike traditional geography, which rested on variations of environmental determinism, a basic interest in man and his spatial reference underlies the concepts…

This book brings together articles by educators, geographers, social scientists, and those whose competence and interests cross two or more of these fields. Geography as a discipline has played an important part in social studies/social science education. These chapters are representative of current thinking on many facets of the interaction among…

This bulletin lists map concepts and skills in a workable, sequential order of teaching in grades 1 through 6. By using the grade level lists the teacher perceives his part in the total program. The list can also be used to test children before they advance to the next sequence. For each set of skills the bulletin outlines what to teach and…

Accused of harboring and supporting terrorists, Saddam Hussein's country of Iraq sits at the top of a short list of targets in United States war on terrorism. Iraq is a country about twice the size of the state of Idaho with a population of over 22 million. The country relies on oil for its economic well-being and controls what some estimate to be…

This booklet provides an overview of interdisciplinary geography and supplies practical examples of how geography can be linked to other subjects. Because geography is included in new state high school graduation requirements, the subject is making a renaissance in the classroom. Teachers are finding new and exciting ways to integrate geography…

This manual is designed as a resource guide for preservice and classroom teachers with an interest in geographic education. The chapters cover a variety of topics including the most recent developments in geographic education. Each chapter offers suggestions and ideas that can be included in general geography/social studies methods courses or…

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)

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)

This lesson plan is designed to give intermediate elementary school students the opportunity to use a highway map to prepare for an imaginary trip to a chosen destination in Illinois or surrounding state. In order to complete the assigned task successfully, students will need to utilize all skills learned during preceding class periods. The major…

This document consists of nine individual booklets published by the Bureau of the Census. "Census Bureau Education Program: Update 1" consists of introductory material and describes the teaching resource series that are presented here and that make up the Bureau's education program. "Census Bureau Teaching Resource 1 - Congressional…