In this curriculum unit, elementary school children read information about two neighboring countries, Israel and Jordan, to make comparisons not only between the two countries but also about their own neighborhood as well. The unit uses a variety of strategies, from reading and responding to writing prompts, to creative activities, to active video viewing with web making. The unit outlines the five fundamental themes of geography to help students discover Israel and Jordan: Location, Place, Movement, Environment, and Region. These fundamental themes are used as the basis for activities. A list of materials needed, background notes, and references to the National Social Studies Standards and the National Geography Standards are included. Contains a 13-item selected bibliography of children's books and a list of 28 Natural Geographic magazine articles on Israel and Jordan. (BT)