The Earth seen from Apollo 17- from NASA (public domain)
What is geography? When many people think of “geography” they think of maps. While maps are a fascinating tool, they make up only a part of geography. When we study geography, we study why something is in a certain location on Earth, and whether it was caused by nature or people. We study the physical processes of nature and the social processes of humans, as well as the differences and links between them. We become more aware of the interconnectedness of the world and its communities, we understand changes in our societies and in the natural world, and we become more socially and environmentally sensitive. Geography is an all-encompassing term for that links our environment and all living things on our planet. While complex, it is vital that kids begin to understand basic topics in geography, in order for them to be successful in science and social studies.
What is Geography?
What is geography? The field of geography is usually split into 2 main fields: physical geography and human geography. There are subtopics divided into these two areas, which overlap with many subjects that we see in school. Teachers and parents can introduce geography in age-appropriate lessons that cover the following topics:
| Examples of Physical Geography | Examples of Human Geography: |
| Physical Maps | Cultural Studies |
| Meteorology and Climate | Language, religion, art, music |
| Oceanography | Migration and Globalization |
| Earth Science | Human impact on the environment |
| Landforms | Political Systems |
| Plants and animals | Transportation |
| Hazards and Natural Disasters | Calendars and Seasons |
My goal for KidWorldCitizen is to gather all of the best of activities to learn about geography! Both on this web site, and in my pinterest boards, you will discover hundreds of activities to teach kids about both physical and cultural geography.
Follow Kid World Citizen’s board #GlobalEd & Multicultural Learning for Kids on Pinterest.
Here is a great cartoon from NatGeo titled “What is Geography?” This cartoon is an introduction into the complex and rich world of geography and geographic education. It acts as a catalyst to thinking about the multi-faceted functions of geography, and the myriad of applications of the discipline. The world of geography is much more than place names and state capitals, and this cartoon aims to show the full breadth of the field.
Geography Bundle for Kids K-4!
Want to introduce your kindergarten through fourth grade students to physical geography and maps? Our “What is Geography?” Bundle is one resource you don’t want to miss! Available at the Kid World Citizen Teachers Pay Teachers Store, this unit is an incredible collection of geography lessons for kids to help them understand their place in the world relative to other places. Check it out- these are easy, printable, and interactive activities that teachers and parents appreciate and kids love. Go now! >
I love this breakdown. I’m bookmarking it to help me make up our geography curriculum. Thank you!
Thanks! SO many fascinating things to study related to our world…