Middle School World Geography
How do the physical characteristics of the Earth both divide and connect us?
For this investigation, students will learn to think like geographers, developing a beginning understanding of the discipline of geography and its tools. They begin by using a sketch map to examine their existing worldview. Then, they investigate why they may see the world the way that they do, learning about map distortions and cartographers’ biases. From there, students investigate the real-life features of the Earth represented in maps, learn about why the Earth looks the way that it does, and how the formation of the Earth shapes distinctive worldviews.
How does culture both divide and connect us?
Students learn about the concept of culture and think about cultural elements that both unite and divide people in the United States. Students then use Google Voyager to explore, compare and contrast different cultures around the world, before creating their own Google Voyager project that highlights historical or contemporary conflicts grounded in culture.
How do governments both divide and connect us?
This investigation begins with direct instruction on different forms of government, the concept of nationalism, and international relations. Then students looks more closely at immigration policy and engage in a deliberation about immigration policy in the United States.
Communication
Why do words matter?
Students learn about the significance of humans’ symbolic speech and use a map to trace the development of language over time and space. Then students investigate the impact of language on a personal level, culminating in a “word wall” of speeches, song lyrics, etc. that have impacted them and their thinking.
Have communication technologies helped or harmed humans’ abilities to connect with one another?
Students research and create a museum exhibit on a particular communication technology and its significance. As a class they explore programming languages and how they aid in human communication. Finally, they write a persuasive essay about the degree to which modern communication technologies have helped or harmed human connection.
Change
How has my community changed over time and space?
Students go on field trips related to community history.
How has the world changed over time and space?
Students use data visualizations on changes related to demography, food, health, energy use, environment, poverty, human rights, violence and war to create a data-based narrative of global change.
How has the United States changed over time and space?
Students use data visualizations and photographs that illustrate changes related to demography, food, health, energy use, environment, poverty, human rights, violence and war to create a visual narrative of national change.
How has my community changed over time and space?
Students dive deeply into one community issue and create a blog, drawing from their knowledge of national and global trends to frame the issue.
Movement
How and why do people move?
Students research a voluntary and involuntary movement of people create a shared Google Map project highlighting movements of different groups of people to the United States.
How and why do goods move?
Students create an illustrated “origin story” about their favorite food, technology, etc.
How can physical movement drive social movement?
Students explore social movements throughout U.S. History and the individuals and ideas behind the movement. They then research an issue that is important to them and develop a project to inform people in their local community about the issue.
Inquiry and Action
How can I address global issues I care about?
Students research and create an action plan to address a global issue of their choice.