The following lessons provide a review and summary for students by asking them to analyze several topics and media, including newspapers, in search of their geographic components, and then leads them to determine how geography is best used as an explanatory tool.
- Putting Geography to Good Use [National Geographic]
For grades 9-12. This lesson asks students to analyze the geographic components of several topics and to determine how geography can be used for a variety of purposes. They will read the U.S. National Geography Standards to use as a reference point for determining the types of concepts that are considered geographic. Students will conclude by designing magazines or Web sites to help people understand the geographic components of an environmental problem.
- Reading between the Lines [National Geographic]
For grades 9-12. In order to become well-informed adults, it is a good idea for students to develop the habit of reading the news and keeping informed on important topics, such as geography, the environment, and world events. With the overwhelming amount of information available both in print and online, it is critical that students learn to read news stories with a critical eye. This lesson will help them evaluate news stories by determining their sources and recognizing biases or viewpoints.
From The New York Times Learning Network list of daily lesson plans on geography.
- Examining Points of View in the Debate over Tibetan Independence [The New York Times Learning Network]
For grades 6-12. In this lesson, students learn about the issues surrounding Tibet’s struggle for independence since China’s invasion in 1950. They then write dialogues discussing the issue from opposing points of view.