World Regional Geography
Texts: World Regional Geography by Mihelic & Pulsipher, W. H. Freeman; 2nd edition (March 15, 2002), ISBN:0716738414, Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time (Paperback) by Dava Sobel, and The Geography Coloring Book by Wyn Kapit (3rd Edition)
Description: This challenging course will take a full year, divided into two semesters. The course will walk the students around the approximately 200 nations of the world using a regional approach and heavily relying on the Five Themes of Geography (Location, Place, Human Environment & Interaction, Movement and Region). Each class will use current events to tie into the region being studied and the cement the information into the memory of the student. 2-4 weeks will be spent on each continent/region.
Expectations: Each student is expected to prepare for each class, arrive promptly, and treat the tutor and fellow students with the utmost of respect. Note taking is expected and will be rewarded by a far higher score than those who do not take careful notes. A project will be completed each semester: an individual project to finalize the fall semester and a group (or small group) project to finalize the course. The work for the course will involve approximately 5 hours a week outside of class. This does not include research for projects. The homework will include reading in the main text, coloring in the secondary text, doing online research, reading current events and writing up short essays on them, and taking quizzes and tests (two “take-home” honor system mid-terms, one each semester).
TEXTBOOK NOTE: This textbook is the SECOND edition - this will save us all considerable money as used copies are readily available online through Amazon.com for $5-15 each. I will be making inquiries into buying a “lot shipment” and will keep you posted on this situation. The geography coloring book must be the 3rd edition and MUST be purchased new.
Materials: Each student will be required to have the following books: a loose leaf notebook with sections, writing tools, and have access to a computer and the Internet. I rely heavily on email communication and expect my students to have access to the internet for research. I will also be asking them to complete at least one assignment that needs a spreadsheet. This can be Microsoft Excel or the Apple equivalent or the free online Google spreadsheet application.
Communication: The best way to contact me is by email. My home phone number is: 301-352-4188, and my email is clsinfo@comcast.net & GeographyTeacher@comcast.net . I will be available at study hall if prearrangements are made.
Please read Mrs. Schaeffer's Course Expectations before you register for her class.
updated 2/29/08
