Introduction to Geography and the Five Themes
Channel: Rueschhoff Teaches
Date: 2020-05-30

This is the introductory lesson to the World Geography course.

In this lesson, the definition of geography is provided and it is explained what the difference is between history and geography.

The differences between physical and human characteristics of the Earth are introduced and then the Five Themes of Geography are explained.  

These are Location, Place, Region, Movement, and Human-Environment Interaction.  Mr. Rueschhoff uses each of these themes to introduce basic geography concepts.

In Location, the difference between Absolute and Relative Location is explained.  The use of latitude and longitude is demonstrated as well as how longitude is used to determine time zones.

In Place, the role of physical and human characteristics in studying an area is explained.

The three types of Regions:  Formal, Functional, and Perceptual are explained with examples of each.

When discussing movement, how geographers study cultural diffusion, cultural convergence, and cultural divergence is discussed.  Additionally, linear distance, time distance, and psychological distance is introduced.

Last, the lesson concludes with how Human-Environment Interaction describes how mankind has changed and been changed by the Earth's physical environment.

This course is meant to be an introduction for a World Geography or Regional Geography course meeting the Texas Education Knowledge Standards (TEKS) for the World Geography studies course.  However, it is useful as an introduction for any geography, history, or social studies course.