First note: I hope everyone who has the flu feels better soon! Keep in mind that reading my blog is the best way to keep up with what you are missing in class.
Today we began viewing Guns, Germs and Steel in class. Many thanks to those of you who raised good questions and made insightful observations. Special thanks to the members of Section 01 for their participation in our TodaysMeet session. We had a rocky start, but then things really got going. Nicely done!
As always, your HW for tonight is to comment on what we did in class today -- in this case, watching the video.
FYI - the entire Guns, Germs and Steel video is available for viewing in short segments on YouTube, starting here. Also, there is a website to accompany the movie, found here. Check them out if you're interested.
PS Good luck tomorrow, Jake!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
The best laid plans...
Today was test day, and needless to say, it was not everything I had hoped for. Many of you had problems connecting to the Internet through our wireless system, making it difficult to take the test. I will let you know what the next step will be ASAP, but in the meantime, here is your assignment.
Please finish the essays for homework tonight, if you did not have enough time to complete your writing in class. You may make it part of today's post, or make it a new post - your choice.
Also, I would like you to write about your experience in taking the test today. As you know, all this blogging and Web 2.0 stuff is pretty new to me, and at the beginning of the year I asked for your patience as we try new things. So, tell me how it went for you personally, and post it! Thanks so much, and I'll see all of you in class tomorrow.
(Here, from today's test, are the instructions for the essays...)
In a short, well-written essay, answer ONE of the following questions:
1) Some people feel very strongly in their pro-globalization opinions, while some anti-globalization advocates have different beliefs. It’s likely that the truth lies somewhere in between. What do you think is the “middle ground” in this argument? Be sure to provide evidence for your opinion.
OR 2) Explain the academic discipline of Human Geography using the five themes. How is this discipline different from the study of physical geography? In your opinion, what is the benefit of studying Human Geography?
OR 3) The demographic transition graph describes the changes in birthrates and death rates that a country experiences over time. Describe the changes that the United States has gone through by using the demographic transition diagram.
For your second essay, go to the following website and read the news story you will find there:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/24/world/americas/24mexico.html
Then, in a short yet brilliant essay, summarize that story by relating it to our studies of immigration in class. Try to use terms from the text and from our class discussions.
When you have finished your test, publish your post.
Please finish the essays for homework tonight, if you did not have enough time to complete your writing in class. You may make it part of today's post, or make it a new post - your choice.
Also, I would like you to write about your experience in taking the test today. As you know, all this blogging and Web 2.0 stuff is pretty new to me, and at the beginning of the year I asked for your patience as we try new things. So, tell me how it went for you personally, and post it! Thanks so much, and I'll see all of you in class tomorrow.
(Here, from today's test, are the instructions for the essays...)
In a short, well-written essay, answer ONE of the following questions:
1) Some people feel very strongly in their pro-globalization opinions, while some anti-globalization advocates have different beliefs. It’s likely that the truth lies somewhere in between. What do you think is the “middle ground” in this argument? Be sure to provide evidence for your opinion.
OR 2) Explain the academic discipline of Human Geography using the five themes. How is this discipline different from the study of physical geography? In your opinion, what is the benefit of studying Human Geography?
OR 3) The demographic transition graph describes the changes in birthrates and death rates that a country experiences over time. Describe the changes that the United States has gone through by using the demographic transition diagram.
For your second essay, go to the following website and read the news story you will find there:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/24/world/americas/24mexico.html
Then, in a short yet brilliant essay, summarize that story by relating it to our studies of immigration in class. Try to use terms from the text and from our class discussions.
When you have finished your test, publish your post.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Tips for tomorrow's test
Tomorrow's test will cover globalization, population pyramids, migration, total fertility rates, demographic transition, life expectancy, the CIA World Factbook - in other words, everything we have discussed since the beginning of the year.
There will be a fill-in-the-blank section and two short essays. You are expected to write clearly, knowledgeably, and with as few grammatical and spelling errors as possible. You should look at the essays as opportunities to tell me what you know.
The test will be given on your laptop. You will submit the test on your blog. Make sure you are on Eastern Standard Time in your settings.
You are permitted to use your text, your notes, your blog, and my blog while taking the test.
You are not permitted to communicate about this test with anyone - in person or electronically - before, during, or after the test. You will take the test during your class period only. Any infractions will be treated as serious violations of John Carroll's Honor Code, and disciplinary action will result.
In other words, do the right thing.
Review the text, your blogs, and your notes tonight, and good things will happen tomorrow!
There will be a fill-in-the-blank section and two short essays. You are expected to write clearly, knowledgeably, and with as few grammatical and spelling errors as possible. You should look at the essays as opportunities to tell me what you know.
The test will be given on your laptop. You will submit the test on your blog. Make sure you are on Eastern Standard Time in your settings.
You are permitted to use your text, your notes, your blog, and my blog while taking the test.
You are not permitted to communicate about this test with anyone - in person or electronically - before, during, or after the test. You will take the test during your class period only. Any infractions will be treated as serious violations of John Carroll's Honor Code, and disciplinary action will result.
In other words, do the right thing.
Review the text, your blogs, and your notes tonight, and good things will happen tomorrow!
Friday, September 25, 2009
Working with the CIA
Reminder: The test on this unit will be next TUESDAY, September 29. Don't forget to study this weekend!
The CIA (Central Intelligence Agency) is best known for their top secret activities providing national security intelligence to the US government. But they also provide an enormous amount of information to the public about every nation on earth.
Your mission, should you decide to accept it (and I know you will), is to gather vital intelligence about six nations and their population. Copy and paste the following paragraphs into your blog, and fill in the blanks by referring to the CIA World Factbook . This blog will self-destruct in five seconds. Good luck, students.
The United States is the fourth largest nation on earth, with a population of 307, 212,123. The total fertility rate is 2.05, and the net migration rate is 4.31, resulting in a population growth rate of 0.975%, which means their population is rising slightly. The infant mortality rate is 6.26 deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is 78.11 years (75.65 for men, 80.69 for women), which means they probably have a good health care system. The literacy rate is 99%, which means they have an excellent educational system. The main language is English, spoken by 82.1% of its people, and the secondary language is Spanish, spoken by 10.7% of its people. 82% of the population lives in cities.
France is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
Japan is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
Niger is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
Iran is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
Mexico is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
(Nation of your choice) is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
The CIA (Central Intelligence Agency) is best known for their top secret activities providing national security intelligence to the US government. But they also provide an enormous amount of information to the public about every nation on earth.
Your mission, should you decide to accept it (and I know you will), is to gather vital intelligence about six nations and their population. Copy and paste the following paragraphs into your blog, and fill in the blanks by referring to the CIA World Factbook . This blog will self-destruct in five seconds. Good luck, students.
The United States is the fourth largest nation on earth, with a population of 307, 212,123. The total fertility rate is 2.05, and the net migration rate is 4.31, resulting in a population growth rate of 0.975%, which means their population is rising slightly. The infant mortality rate is 6.26 deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is 78.11 years (75.65 for men, 80.69 for women), which means they probably have a good health care system. The literacy rate is 99%, which means they have an excellent educational system. The main language is English, spoken by 82.1% of its people, and the secondary language is Spanish, spoken by 10.7% of its people. 82% of the population lives in cities.
France is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
Japan is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
Niger is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
Iran is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
Mexico is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
(Nation of your choice) is the __________ largest nation on earth, with a population of __________. The total fertility rate is __________, and the net migration rate is __________, resulting in a population growth rate of __________, which means their population is __________. The infant mortality rate is __________deaths per 1000 live births, and the life expectancy is __________ years (_________ for men, __________ for women), which means they probably have a __________ health care system. The literacy rate is __________, which means they have an __________ educational system. The main language is __________, spoken by __________ of its people, and the secondary language is __________, spoken by __________of its people. __________of the population lives in cities.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Real World: Human Geography
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: The test on this unit will be next TUESDAY, September 29.
It’s easy to relate what we are learning in this class to the real world. News stories about globalization, over-population, even total fertility rates -- are everywhere.
Today we will search for news stories on the Web that pertain to the topics we have been covering in class.
Here are some excellent, reliable sources for news stories:
* Google news
* Yahoo! News
* New York Times
* BBC News
* Guardian
* The Independent (UK)
Here are some possible topics for you to research:
* Globalization
* Net migration rate
* Total fertility rate
* Immigration
* Population pyramid
* Population growth (or Over-population)
* Population decline
* Migration patterns
* World population
The assignment: (worth 15 points, due before the next class): Choose three of the above topics, and find a relevant news story for each one. Use any of the above news sources, or another legitimate source of your choosing. Include the story’s headline, the site it came from, the link to the story, and a short summary of the article. If the story has a photo (or even better, a video!), you may include that. Here is an example of what your posting should look like.
"Bringing Solar Power to Africa’s Poor” (nytimes.com)
http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/09/23/bringing-solar-power-to-africas-poor/?scp=1&sq=globalization&st=cse
Solar power is being promoted as an alternative to kerosene, oil, and other traditional energy sources. It would be smart to be able to take advantage of Africa’s abundant sunlight without the need to invest in expensive grid networks. This might work well in other places around the world, since 1.6 billion people in developing countries still have no access to electricity.
“Population Growth Driving Climate Change, Poverty: Experts” (Brietbart.com)
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=CNG.506b7104e85d35fc4f8355e566ab5fad.261&show_article=1
Population growth will have a number of terrible consequences for our world. These include widespread famine, ecological overload, and even the failure of governments in countries that are overwhelmed by too many people. The population of the earth may increase from 6.8 billion today to over 11 billion in around 40 years. These findings came from a group of 42 respected specialists in environmental science, economics, and demography.
“Russians Get Day Off to Procreate, Then Win Prizes” (denverpost.com)
http://www.denverpost.com/ci_6624865
A Russian region of Ulyanovsk has declared September 12 the Day of Conception and for the third year running is giving couples time off from work to procreate. Government officials are concerned because Russia has a low birth rate and a high death rate, and the population has been shrinking since the early 1990s. Couples who "give birth to a patriot" during the June 12 festivities will win money, cars, refrigerators and other prizes.
It’s easy to relate what we are learning in this class to the real world. News stories about globalization, over-population, even total fertility rates -- are everywhere.
Today we will search for news stories on the Web that pertain to the topics we have been covering in class.
Here are some excellent, reliable sources for news stories:
* Google news
* Yahoo! News
* New York Times
* BBC News
* Guardian
* The Independent (UK)
Here are some possible topics for you to research:
* Globalization
* Net migration rate
* Total fertility rate
* Immigration
* Population pyramid
* Population growth (or Over-population)
* Population decline
* Migration patterns
* World population
The assignment: (worth 15 points, due before the next class): Choose three of the above topics, and find a relevant news story for each one. Use any of the above news sources, or another legitimate source of your choosing. Include the story’s headline, the site it came from, the link to the story, and a short summary of the article. If the story has a photo (or even better, a video!), you may include that. Here is an example of what your posting should look like.
"Bringing Solar Power to Africa’s Poor” (nytimes.com)
http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/09/23/bringing-solar-power-to-africas-poor/?scp=1&sq=globalization&st=cse
Solar power is being promoted as an alternative to kerosene, oil, and other traditional energy sources. It would be smart to be able to take advantage of Africa’s abundant sunlight without the need to invest in expensive grid networks. This might work well in other places around the world, since 1.6 billion people in developing countries still have no access to electricity.
“Population Growth Driving Climate Change, Poverty: Experts” (Brietbart.com)
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=CNG.506b7104e85d35fc4f8355e566ab5fad.261&show_article=1
Population growth will have a number of terrible consequences for our world. These include widespread famine, ecological overload, and even the failure of governments in countries that are overwhelmed by too many people. The population of the earth may increase from 6.8 billion today to over 11 billion in around 40 years. These findings came from a group of 42 respected specialists in environmental science, economics, and demography.
“Russians Get Day Off to Procreate, Then Win Prizes” (denverpost.com)
http://www.denverpost.com/ci_6624865
A Russian region of Ulyanovsk has declared September 12 the Day of Conception and for the third year running is giving couples time off from work to procreate. Government officials are concerned because Russia has a low birth rate and a high death rate, and the population has been shrinking since the early 1990s. Couples who "give birth to a patriot" during the June 12 festivities will win money, cars, refrigerators and other prizes.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Migration
Migration Patterns
In class we will cover the info on migration found on p. 22-24 in the text.
Consider:
Where are people migrating from?
Where are they migrating to?
Why do people migrate? (push forces, pull forces)
What is a refugee?
Define net migration rate.
What is the net migration rate of the United States? Canada? Mexico?
Where are your ancestors from?
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
more Demographic Transition
HW is to read the section on Demographic Transitions on p. 22 in the text. Your blog post for today will include a short paragraph summarizing this section, as well as a review of what we did in class.
In the "Links" section on the right hand side of this blog you will see "Demographic Transition (detailed)". This is just like the graph on p. 22, but with more detail. Very helpful.
In the "Links" section on the right hand side of this blog you will see "Demographic Transition (detailed)". This is just like the graph on p. 22, but with more detail. Very helpful.
Monday, September 21, 2009
for Section 03 only...
Section 03 is my only section to meet on Mondays, so this post is just for you!
Catch-up day: students who hadn't taken the in-class map/regions drill yet took theirs in class today.
If you have a zero for any assignments, you need to make up the work ASAP. Next week MQRs (mid-quarter reports) go out, potentially affecting your eligibility for sports, the play, etc.
We reviewed your population pyramids in class today.
Finally, your HW is to read the section on Demographic Transitions on p. 22 in the text. Your blog post for today will include a short paragraph summarizing this section, as well as a review of what we did in class.
Catch-up day: students who hadn't taken the in-class map/regions drill yet took theirs in class today.
If you have a zero for any assignments, you need to make up the work ASAP. Next week MQRs (mid-quarter reports) go out, potentially affecting your eligibility for sports, the play, etc.
We reviewed your population pyramids in class today.
Finally, your HW is to read the section on Demographic Transitions on p. 22 in the text. Your blog post for today will include a short paragraph summarizing this section, as well as a review of what we did in class.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
for the weekend
As you can see in yesterday's post, I have posted a couple of Population Pyramids. Many thanks to the students who gave instruction in class on the various ways to post these pictures.
Your assignment for the weekend is to complete the assignment listed in my Thursday post: post population pyramids for two countries (one developed, one developing), along with their TFR and % of young and % of old people. Describe in a short paragraph what is projected to happen to the Rate of Natural Increase (RNI) in both countries as a result of your analysis of the data. (Will there be rapid growth, slow growth, or zero growth?)
Your assignment for the weekend is to complete the assignment listed in my Thursday post: post population pyramids for two countries (one developed, one developing), along with their TFR and % of young and % of old people. Describe in a short paragraph what is projected to happen to the Rate of Natural Increase (RNI) in both countries as a result of your analysis of the data. (Will there be rapid growth, slow growth, or zero growth?)
Friday, September 18, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Statistical comparisons
Homework Assignment for Sections 01 and 05
Using this website -- http://www.census.gov/ipc/www/idb/informationGateway.php -- compare statistics and population pyramids for a more developed country, and a developing country.
Record vital demographic statistics that could help human geographers determine what is happening to the populations of these two countries. These statistics include Total Fertility Rate (TFR), % of Young, and % of Old. (Definitions of these terms are in your text, and on the Glossary page of the census.gov site.)
Also, record population pyramids for both countries by taking screen shots of the images (Windows key + S). Describe in a short paragraphwhat is projected to happen to the Rate of Natural Increase (RNI) in both countries as a result of your analysis of the data. (Will there be rapid growth, slow growth, or zero growth?)
Post your work on your blog.
Examples of developed countries are the United States, Japan, France, Germany, Canada, Iceland, Australia, Ireland, Norway, Spain, New Zealand, and the Netherlands, among others.
Examples of developing countries are Kenya, Afghanistan, Cuba, Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Vietnam, Ethiopia, Mexico, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Brazil, Somalia, and many others.
Have fun!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
The first of our Five Themes
Today we started discussing Population and Settlement, one of the Five Themes of Human Geography. We studied Population Pyramids as a graphic presentation of the population of a country, broken down by gender and age.
Section 03 made their way through the PowerPoint, ending with a small group exercise. Sections 01 and 05 are a tad behind, since they took their quiz today.
Homework for all sections tonight is to read the section in the text entitled Population Growth and Change, which runs from p. 18 to the beginning of p. 22. Pay close attention to the following terms:
Section 03 made their way through the PowerPoint, ending with a small group exercise. Sections 01 and 05 are a tad behind, since they took their quiz today.
Homework for all sections tonight is to read the section in the text entitled Population Growth and Change, which runs from p. 18 to the beginning of p. 22. Pay close attention to the following terms:
- RNI (rate of natural increase)
- crude birthrate
- crude death rate
- TFR (total fertility rate)
- population pyramid
- life expectancy
Monday, September 14, 2009
Monday, Monday
Grades continue to be posted from work you did last week. If you see a zero in your gradebook for "First Blog" or "Week Two Blog Check, " don't despair. Just make up the work and receive partial credit. If you're not sure what needs to be done, check my blog postings from the last two weeks for details, or come and see me. I'm available before school, after school, and during free mods.
Section 01 and 05 did not meet today. Section 03 took a quiz on world regions, globalization, and the five themes of Human Geography. 01 and 05 take that quiz tomorrow.
03: don't forget to post on your blog!
Section 01 and 05 did not meet today. Section 03 took a quiz on world regions, globalization, and the five themes of Human Geography. 01 and 05 take that quiz tomorrow.
03: don't forget to post on your blog!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
we're picking up steam
Reminders: Section 03 has a quiz Monday and Sections 01 and 05 have their quiz Tuesday.
This quiz will include a map of the world's regions, questions on globalization, plus a question on the five themes of Human Geography.
You can study the map on p. 12-13 in your text (which also appears on the right-hand side of this blog) to prepare. The Globalization Pros and Cons I have posted on this blog (plus your class notes) will also help you out.
I am also posting your first grades this weekend. The first grade is for your first blog, in which you posted HW covering the five themes and the definition of globalization. The second grade is what you scored on the in-class map work we did on Tuesday, 9/8/09. The third grade is a Week Two blog check. Are you posting to your blog after every class? Then you scored high on this grade. If you're not posting, your grade will reflect this.
As always, questions or comments can be made by clicking on the "comments" link below.
This quiz will include a map of the world's regions, questions on globalization, plus a question on the five themes of Human Geography.
You can study the map on p. 12-13 in your text (which also appears on the right-hand side of this blog) to prepare. The Globalization Pros and Cons I have posted on this blog (plus your class notes) will also help you out.
I am also posting your first grades this weekend. The first grade is for your first blog, in which you posted HW covering the five themes and the definition of globalization. The second grade is what you scored on the in-class map work we did on Tuesday, 9/8/09. The third grade is a Week Two blog check. Are you posting to your blog after every class? Then you scored high on this grade. If you're not posting, your grade will reflect this.
As always, questions or comments can be made by clicking on the "comments" link below.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Today Sections 01 and 05 finished summarizing the pros and cons of globalization. I'll be checking your blogs and posting your results soon.
Also, I've decided that the quiz on world regions and globalization will be next Monday for Section 03, and on Tuesday for 01 and 05. Be ready!
The "Comments" section of my blog has now been activated. Your feedback is always welcome!
Tonight's HW: as always, post what we did in class today. I'll be reading!
Also, I've decided that the quiz on world regions and globalization will be next Monday for Section 03, and on Tuesday for 01 and 05. Be ready!
The "Comments" section of my blog has now been activated. Your feedback is always welcome!
Tonight's HW: as always, post what we did in class today. I'll be reading!
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
The pros and cons of globalization
Today we worked in pairs studying the section of our text (p. 6-9) that deals with the pros and cons of globalization. Working together, students analyzed the information, and reported back to the class. These reports will continue in class tomorrow (or on Friday for Section 03).
As we discussed in class, tonight everyone should post their class notes in their blog. Both students in each team should post to their blog, not just the student who wrote down the notes in class. We will compile your results, and I will post all the pros and cons on my blog when we're finished.
BTW, I'm thinking this Friday (9/11) might be a good day to give a quiz on the regions of the world. What do you think? Feel free to enter any comments below...
As we discussed in class, tonight everyone should post their class notes in their blog. Both students in each team should post to their blog, not just the student who wrote down the notes in class. We will compile your results, and I will post all the pros and cons on my blog when we're finished.
BTW, I'm thinking this Friday (9/11) might be a good day to give a quiz on the regions of the world. What do you think? Feel free to enter any comments below...
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Sweet map skills
Today we designated the regions of the world on a map, then identified two dozen nations by region. Some of these countries were obvious (the US, Russia, China) and others were more obscure (Tibet, Haiti). But we need to have a geographic foundation as we begin to study Human Geography. As we study various regions of our planet, we need to know what nations (and what people) occupy these regions. You used a variety of sources to find these nations: your text, maps, even Google Earth. I will compile a list of the most useful sources and list them for you for your future use.
Tonight, complete today's work if you did not finish in class. Many of you need to update your blog to include two key elements of your notes: our definition of globalization, and the five themes of Human Geography (seen on the right-hand side of this page). Get in the habit of writing in this blog every day after class. What should you write? Sometimes it will be something as simple as reviewing what we did in class. You may transfer your class notes. Often you will do your homework assignment in your blog. The key is to spend at least a couple minutes thinking about today's class, and writing down your thoughts. I can't wait to read your stuff!
One final note: today we welcomed Rachel to the famous 01 section. We hope you enjoy JC and feel at home as a member of the class of '13!
Tonight, complete today's work if you did not finish in class. Many of you need to update your blog to include two key elements of your notes: our definition of globalization, and the five themes of Human Geography (seen on the right-hand side of this page). Get in the habit of writing in this blog every day after class. What should you write? Sometimes it will be something as simple as reviewing what we did in class. You may transfer your class notes. Often you will do your homework assignment in your blog. The key is to spend at least a couple minutes thinking about today's class, and writing down your thoughts. I can't wait to read your stuff!
One final note: today we welcomed Rachel to the famous 01 section. We hope you enjoy JC and feel at home as a member of the class of '13!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Labor Day weekend - woo-hoo!
"Traditionally, Labor Day is celebrated by most Americans as the symbolic end of the summer. The holiday is often regarded as a day of rest and parades ... Forms of celebration include picnics, barbecues, fireworks displays, water sports, and public art events." (from the Wikipedia entry for Labor Day, found here)
I think we definitely deserve three days off - we've been working hard! Here's what I want you to do over the holiday (besides having fun with your friends and family).
Many of you have been "laboring" over your blogs - picking a cool template, posting photos, changing colors, making it YOURS. Good job! More importantly, you need to start adding your notes and your homework assignments. In class we'll be talking about how to copy and paste from OneNote into your blog, how to set up new posts, etc. Lots of you are already up to speed on this; some of you have work to do.
In any case, by Tuesday morning, I want EVERYONE to have set up their blog, and have at least one posting that contains notes and a homework assignment. I am checking and grading this assignment.
I also want EVERYONE to "follow" my blog, as I am going to be "following" yours.
If you have questions or problems, please see me before the weekend. We will also devote some class time to this. I want everyone to be in the habit of checking my blog and posting regularly on your blog when we come back from break.
Also, don't forget about your summer reading assignments. If you don't have a Fine Arts class, you need to email your Pixton comic and your written reponses to me, at rschick@johncarroll.org. I'll be checking them this weekend, so get them in ASAP. I can't wait to see them, especially your comics. (If you want to see MY awesome Pixton, click here. Comments and ratings welcome!)
Happy Labor Day!
I think we definitely deserve three days off - we've been working hard! Here's what I want you to do over the holiday (besides having fun with your friends and family).
Many of you have been "laboring" over your blogs - picking a cool template, posting photos, changing colors, making it YOURS. Good job! More importantly, you need to start adding your notes and your homework assignments. In class we'll be talking about how to copy and paste from OneNote into your blog, how to set up new posts, etc. Lots of you are already up to speed on this; some of you have work to do.
In any case, by Tuesday morning, I want EVERYONE to have set up their blog, and have at least one posting that contains notes and a homework assignment. I am checking and grading this assignment.
I also want EVERYONE to "follow" my blog, as I am going to be "following" yours.
If you have questions or problems, please see me before the weekend. We will also devote some class time to this. I want everyone to be in the habit of checking my blog and posting regularly on your blog when we come back from break.
Also, don't forget about your summer reading assignments. If you don't have a Fine Arts class, you need to email your Pixton comic and your written reponses to me, at rschick@johncarroll.org. I'll be checking them this weekend, so get them in ASAP. I can't wait to see them, especially your comics. (If you want to see MY awesome Pixton, click here. Comments and ratings welcome!)
Happy Labor Day!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
introductions are complete
Finally, all three sections have been "introduced" to Human Geography. We are underway!
For all sections: please begin bringing your book to class every day. Being able to leave your book home all semester was a luxury we couldn't afford. (Besides, it's not THAT heavy...)
Also for all sections: you should begin entering your notes, your homework, and your thoughts in your blog. Don't forget to become a "Follower" of my blog, and I'll follow yours.
Section 01 defined globalization today. Entering your notes is your only homework tonight.
Section 03 had the whole world in their hands today as they identified the regions of the world, as illustrated in the text on p. 12-13. This same map can also be found on the right side of this screen. Double click it to expand it, study it, learn it, and be ready for a quiz on it next week. See you next Tuesday! Don't forget to blog about today's class.
Section 05 viewed the first PowerPoint of the year today, which was quite a thrill for us all. Transcribe your notes into your blog, along with this homework:
Read p. 2 – 5
Define globalization
Take notice of headings
Jot down everything you see in a large font or a colored font
Devour photos & captions
Study maps
Peruse the Table of Contents (just called Contents in this text) and identify the five themes of geography
For all sections: please begin bringing your book to class every day. Being able to leave your book home all semester was a luxury we couldn't afford. (Besides, it's not THAT heavy...)
Also for all sections: you should begin entering your notes, your homework, and your thoughts in your blog. Don't forget to become a "Follower" of my blog, and I'll follow yours.
Section 01 defined globalization today. Entering your notes is your only homework tonight.
Section 03 had the whole world in their hands today as they identified the regions of the world, as illustrated in the text on p. 12-13. This same map can also be found on the right side of this screen. Double click it to expand it, study it, learn it, and be ready for a quiz on it next week. See you next Tuesday! Don't forget to blog about today's class.
Section 05 viewed the first PowerPoint of the year today, which was quite a thrill for us all. Transcribe your notes into your blog, along with this homework:
Read p. 2 – 5
Define globalization
Take notice of headings
Jot down everything you see in a large font or a colored font
Devour photos & captions
Study maps
Peruse the Table of Contents (just called Contents in this text) and identify the five themes of geography
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
a fly in the ointment...
I've been told that my calendar entries - where I've been posting homework - have not been showing up in your emailboxes. Until we get that straightened out, I'll be posting HW assignments right here on the blog. Many thanks for your patience and understanding!
Section 01: We got everyone signed up to a gmail account, you're all subscribed to my blog, and you all created your own blog. This enabled us to actually begin discussing Human Geography! We went over the introductory PowerPoint (which will be posted soon).
Tonight's homework (Section 01):
Read p. 2 – 5
Define globalization
Take notice of headings
Jot down everything you see in a large font or a colored font
Devour photos & captions
Study maps
Look at the Table of Contents (just called Contents in this text) and identify the five themes of geography
Section 03 continued to discuss globalization, human geography, and physical geography, as well as the regions of the world as presented on p. 12-13 of the text. No homework for you tonight.
Section 05, like the 01 folks, worked on gmail and blogs. Your Human Geography work begins tomorrow.
Section 01: We got everyone signed up to a gmail account, you're all subscribed to my blog, and you all created your own blog. This enabled us to actually begin discussing Human Geography! We went over the introductory PowerPoint (which will be posted soon).
Tonight's homework (Section 01):
Read p. 2 – 5
Define globalization
Take notice of headings
Jot down everything you see in a large font or a colored font
Devour photos & captions
Study maps
Look at the Table of Contents (just called Contents in this text) and identify the five themes of geography
Section 03 continued to discuss globalization, human geography, and physical geography, as well as the regions of the world as presented on p. 12-13 of the text. No homework for you tonight.
Section 05, like the 01 folks, worked on gmail and blogs. Your Human Geography work begins tomorrow.
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