Geography - GEOG 105

Course Description

This course introduces earth science topics and integrates pedagogical methods appropriate for elementary school teachers. The course will help prospective teachers create a resource base of knowledge and activities for teaching earth science and develop teaching strategies based on how children learn science. Teaching strategies include inquiry-based strategies and active, cooperative and collaborative learning strategies. The course includes lecture, peer teaching, demonstrations and lesson plan development. This course requires all students must meet the requirements of a criminal background check.

Prerequisites

(A requirement that must be completed before taking this course.)

Course Competencies

Upon successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• Explain the interrelationship of the hydrosphere, geosphere and the atmosphere.
• Explain Earth processes.
• Interpret geographical tools, such as maps, aerial photos and satellite images.
• Summarize the constructivist model applied to teaching elementary school grades.
• Acquire a resource base of lesson plans, activities and references to teach earth science at the elementary level.
• Demonstrate mastery of Michigan Curriculum Framework Science Content Benchmarks for Geosphere, Hydrosphere, Solar System and Atmosphere.
• Illustrate the active learning teaching strategy in the required peer teaching lessons.
• Explain the variable composition and temperature gradient for the four atmospheric layers.
• Summarize the importance of atmospheric processes for life on earth.
• Summarize the inputs and outputs of the Earth's energy budget.
• Explain weather processes and elements, including radiation, temperature, humidity, pressure and prevailing winds.
• Explain the spatial distribution of water on earth and the components of the hydrologic cycle.
• Explain the processes of geomorphology, including tectonic, fluvial and eolian processes.
• Investigate local hydrology by working in teams to perform field work in a local stream.
• Analyze the components of a Geographic Information System.

Course Schedule

Currently no sections of this class are being offered.