The Foundations of Geography - Spheres, Themes and Interconnections

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THIS LESSON IS TO BE COMPLETED TODAY FOR GROUP B - TUESDAY/FRIDAY.  PLEASE ENSURE IT'S DONE BEFORE TOMORROW'S CLASS.  

Sand from the Sahara Desert being blown across the Atlantic to the Amazon Basin

During today's lesson, we were introduced to the 4 Key Spheres of the Earth, and how we classify and understand our surroundings and environment.   We know the study of the Earth involves studying the natural features, but also the way in which humans interact with their natural environment.  This is a mutual relationship where both humans and the natural environment are impacted by each other, in both positive and negative ways. 

The Earth's Spheres - Background Information

A. There are 4 key spheres that we will explore in this course: the Biosphere, Lithosphere, Atmosphere and Hydrosphere.   Read the first 3 pages of this handout, to ensure that you understand the basics of these concepts.  Take notes on the basics of each sphere, and the interconnections between them.  Hopefully this is review for you, from other course study. 

B. Complete this class handout on Spheres - review the front page, and then complete the practice questions on the back side.  We will review the answers in class together.   We also will complete a nature walk to see the spheres in action 'in real life'.   Here is the powerpoint on Spheres. 

  • If you don't have the class handout - record your answers on a sheet of paper
C. Review the Themes of Geography notes that are attached.  Go through the 5 different themes, paying attention to the details of each of them.   Here is the powerpoint on the different Themes. 
  • Watch this video, to help you understand them a little bit closer.  Video - Geography Themes
D.  Case Study - Iceland's Volcanic Explosion.  
How are human actions and historical events affected by the natural environment?

                             Laki Volcano from Space             Map from 1783 showing explosion

Read the Article - Iceland's Explosion - and answer the questions that are on the back of the Geography Themes handout.  Again, Group B - bring your digital answers to class. No need to print

Great start to the year - Geo 12s!  There will be a practice test posted on Friday that you can complete to check your knowledge and understanding of the content in Week 1. 

Extension Activities!
(Optional Links, and things to investigate - not required readings.  These are for those interested)


Article - How the Fall of the Roman Empire was connected to drought, famine and the weather

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