Human Geography

AP Human Geography is a yearlong course that focuses on the distribution, processes, and effects of human populations on the planet. Units of study include:

Unit I Human Geography (its nature and perspectives)-Chapter 1

Unit II Population Issues-Chapters 2, 3

Unit III Cultural Patterns and Processes-Chapters 4, 5, 6, 7

Unit IV Political Organization of Space-Chapter 8

Unit V Agricultural and Rural Land Use-Chapter 10

Unit VI Industrialization and Economic Development-Chapters 9, 11

Unit VII Cities and Urban Land Use-Chapters 12, 13

This course has been designed to prepare students to successfully take the AP Human Geography Examination for college credit. The units of study will emphasize geographic models and their applications.  Case studies from around the globe are compared to the situation in both the United States and locally in California. To introduce students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use and alteration of Earth’s surface, the use of spatial concepts and landscape analysis will be used to examine human organization of space.  Students will learn about and employ the methods of geographers, especially including observation, mapmaking, data gathering and reporting, and technical writing by using and interpreting maps, data sets, and geographic models.  GIS, aerial photographs, and satellite images, may also be used.  Spatial concepts, geographic vocabulary, and landscape interpretation to a variety of locations and situations around the globe and in local areas will be investigated so that students will learn spatial relationships at different scales.  Students will develop a geographic perspective with which to view the landscape and understand current events. 

Course Format:  This class is taught using lectures, group discussions, book readings, and in-class assignments.  A semester project will be assigned.  Students are expected to READ each chapter.  Participation is very important in the learning process.  A notebook or three-ring loose-leaf binder is required. 

Homework:  A typical night of homework:  Reading from the textbook to answer guided Key Issue questions (30-60 minutes) and Possibly completing: projects, quick writes, and/or preparing for discussion groups (15-30 min)

Summer Assignment:  Students will need to download the summer assignment from the Enochs website.  It is a map assignment to prepare you for the class.  The assignment covers areas that students will need to be familiar with.  It is due the first day of class.