Six Essential Elements

Physical Systems

Hurricanes, volcanoes, glaciers. How do these physical systems shape the earth's surface?

Places and Regions

Physical characteristics of a place such as landforms, climates, plant or animal life. Human characteristics, including language and a way of life. Geographers often group places into regions. Regions are united by common characteristics.

Human systems

how people have shaped our world. Political boundary lines. Why people settle in certain places?

The Uses of Geography

Knowing how to use the tools of geography will prepare you for our modern society.

Environment and Society

The relationship between people and their natural surroundings. The Human-Environment interaction shows how people affect the environment.

The world in spatial terms

Where is a place located? Knowing where the place is located will help you develop an awareness of the world around you.