Instructor: Kari Jones
Email: kari@class-source.com
 
Course Description: Foundations of Geography provides a biblical perspective on geography as we look at the earth’s surface, weather, continents, physical features, and cultures around the globe. Foundations of Geography helps students understand the physical and cultural aspects of the world while exploring how geography influences history and events. The course includes mapping activities, research, projects, discussions, hands-on activities and practical applications for understanding world geography.
 
Course Objectives: The objective of this course is to introduce students to several key aspects of geography aiding in the development of a well-rounded understanding of the world. These aspects will include:
Map Skills & Spatial Awareness – how to read and interpret maps, globes, atlases, and coordinates (latitude/longitude).
Physical Geography – Exploring landforms, climates, ecosystems, natural resources, and how physical features affect human life.
Political Geography – Learning about countries, capitals, and borders
Cultural Geography – Understanding different cultures, languages, religions, traditions, and how geography influences human societies.
Economic Geography – Examining how geography affects trade, industry, agriculture, and the movement of goods and people.
Environmental Geography – Discussing human-environment interactions, sustainability, and global challenges such as climate change and natural disasters.
Historical Geography – how geography has shaped historical events, migrations, and civilizations.
Current Events & Global Awareness – Encouraging students to connect geography with real-world issues, including global conflicts, natural disasters, and international relations.
 
Grade Level: 4th-8th
 
Class Time: Tuesday 11:00AM-11:55AM
 
Course Duration: Full Year
 
Required Material(s): binder, binder dividers, pencils, pencil crayons, lined notebook paper, tracing paper, ruler, erasers
 
Classroom Expectations:
Participation & Engagement:
Be active learners – Ask questions, share ideas, and contribute to discussions.
Try before asking for help – Attempt problems independently before seeking assistance.
Stay focused – Listen attentively and minimize distractions.
Champion Mindset & Problem-Solving
Embrace challenges – Struggle is part of learning; don’t give up too quickly.
Learn from mistakes – Mistakes are opportunities to improve and grow.
Show reasoning – Explain thinking verbally or in writing, not just give answers.
Work Habits & Responsibility
Complete assignments on time – Stay on track with homework and classwork.
Show all work neatly – Organize steps clearly to develop good problem-solving habits.
Use resources wisely – Reference notes, textbooks, and peers appropriately.
Teamwork & Respect
Work well with others – Respect classmates’ ideas and contribute to group work.
Be kind and supportive – Encourage peers rather than put them down.
Listen when others speak – Practice active listening and wait your turn.
Reaching Excellence Together
Follow instructions the first time – Saves time and keeps the lesson moving.
Ask for help appropriately – Raise hands or follow classroom protocols.
Be honest – No copying or cheating—geography is about learning and gaining understanding, not just getting the right answers.
 
Grading Policies: In Foundations of Geography, grades are based on how well a student demonstrates their understanding of the material. This includes regular participation, completion of homework, accuracy on tests/quizzes, and creativity or effort put into projects. It's important that students stay engaged in class and complete assignments on time.
Tests and Quizzes (20%) – Assess knowledge on key concepts like countries, capitals, physical geography, and map skills.
Homework and Assignments (30%) – Regular homework, projects, or assignments that reinforce learning, such as map labeling, geography worksheets, or research projects.
Class Participation (15%) – Participation in discussions, group work, and activities. This encourages active engagement in class.
Projects (20%) – Larger projects such as creating maps, presenting on countries or regions, or producing visual representations of geographic concepts.
Skills & Map Work (15%) – Assessing students' ability to use maps, tools, and resources, including drawing, reading, and interpreting maps accurately.
 
Grading Scale: A = 90-100% • B = 80-89% • C = 70-79% • D = 60-69% • F = Below 60%
 
Additional Information: Foundations of Geography will be using online resources and digital tools. Some homework and assignments will require students to do research and will need access to either a library or the internet.