As a social studies teacher for almost twenty years, many times during open house I had to justify to parents the importance of social studies in our schools. But when I was asked about the subject of geography here are my FAST FOUR reasons why kids should be learn geography.
1) Geography is key to all other subjects! Econ, government, and history are all rooted in geography. A nation's economy is based upon the nature resources, which are directly related to geography. Governments, there successes and failures are based upon geography. Also, representation in many democratic nations are directly tied to geography. Finally, history - wins and losses based upon geography.
2) Geography is most relevant! It's the most likely social science my students will deal with after high school. Let's face it. As a government teacher, I want all my students to be well informed and participate in our government. But, statically speaking, they will not vote, let alone write their congressional leader. Sadly, the same might be said for their historical skills. But, how likely will they be to use a map? No matter if that map is printed on paper or on a GPS. How many of our students will deliver pizza, or need to read a bus route map? I think most of our students will.
3) Geography helps me understand the world! Geography is so much more than memorization of capitals and the place of a nation on a map. It's the understanding of cultures, religions, and languages. Geography will give my students the basic tools to unlocking the world outside their culture. It allows the to understanding how people across this huge globe survive.
4) It's the BEST tasting subject! Okay, I love history and I love government. But, how often do I get eat totally different foods when teaching government or history. Yes, sometimes in history. But, in geography the opportunities for new foods abound. What better way to a student's heart (and mind) than through their stomach...
Also, if you are looking for some great geography lessons, check them out here:
Social Studies Super Store
Have you seen those colorful U-Haul trucks when driving
down the highway? If you looked closely
at these trucks, you can see these images that include interesting facts about
our states. U Haul calls these
incredible images SuperGraphics.
