Map Skills, Themes of Geography
Grade Level: 7th Grade
Subject: Social Studies
Time Frame: 7 weeks (August/September)
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Big Understandings
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- use geographic tools and resources to research topics in the Eastern Hemisphere to make geographic inferences and predictions
- regional differences and perspectives in the Eastern Hemisphere impact human and environmental interactions
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Essential Questions
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- how are different types of maps important in understanding various types of information?
- how could geographic data be used for both positive and negative results?
- what is the importance of using various geographic tools to analyze topics?
- how do geographers apply information from a variety of sources?
- how can a location be in different regions at the same time?
- how do regional issues affect larger areas?
- how do geographic characteristics impact regional issues?
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By the end of the unit, students will be able to:
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- use maps and geographic tools to find patterns in human systems and/or physical features
- collect, classify, and analyze data to make geographic inferences and predictions
- apply inquiry and research utilizing geographic tools (GPS and satellite imagery)
- interpret maps to make inferences and predictions
- determine how physical and political features impact cultural diffusion and regional differences (modern environmental issues, culutral patterns, trade barriers, and economic interdependence)
- examine the geographic location and distribution of resources within a region to determine the economic and social impact on its people (Middle Eastern water rights, the acceptance of refugees from other countries, and the Salt Trade)
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Topics:
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â—¦ Explore a variety of map skills
â—¦ Analyze other parts of the world and recognize the interconnectedness which exists
â—¦ Ask the question “what is culture?”
â—¦ Explore the earliest human
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Standards
SS.7.2.1
SS.7.2.2