Unit 1: Introduction to Geography and Alaska!
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
• Use a compass rose, scale, and map key correctly.
• Identify different landforms found in Alaska.
• Identify different map projections, and why a person would need different map projections of one area.
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
1. The five themes of geography allow us to explore patterns in location, place, human environment interaction, movement, and regions.
• How does geography allow us to explore patterns in Alaska’s regions and Alaska’s cultures?
• How do physical conditions, movement, population, culture, and interaction patterns influence Alaskans?
• How can we evaluate the impact of global change on Alaskans?
• How are ancient traditions and ways of life reflected in the lives of indigenous Alaskan populations?
2. Geography has a range of helpful tools that can assist us in understanding our earth and its patterns.
• How can we use the tools of geography to help us understand the earth and its patterns?
• Why do we use the tools of geography?
• Why are there so many different types of maps, globes, scales, and other forms of geography tools?
• What are latitude and longitude and how are they determined and used?
• How are latitude and regional climate, vegetation, and land use interrelated?
3. Because of its geographic separation and natural resources, Alaska has a unique identity and role within the United States and the world.
• How does geographic separation affect Alaska?
• How is Alaska unique in the United States and the world?
Summative Project:
Students are assigned to research one of Alaska’s regions. They will create a flipbook, poster, or PowerPoint presentation of their region using the 5 themes of geography.