North American Geography

Physical Maps

Cluster 1 focuses on what physical maps tell us about the land of North America as students explore the Supporting Question: What can maps tell us about physical geography? A series of activities help students understand the names and attributes of different landforms and bodies of water, how to analyze a map, and where different features can be found on a physical map of North America. By the end of the cluster, students are able to provide an answer to one of their inquiry questions supported by two pieces of evidence from maps.

Political Maps

Cluster 2 focuses on the Supporting Question: What can maps tell us about human geography? Students begin the inquiry by observing the differences between physical maps and political maps. They ask questions about political maps and how they show the ways land is divided into countries, states, provinces, and nations. Students investigate sources to understand the boundaries on political maps. For a deeper dive into the kinds of information on a political map, students create their own political map of a state. They also explore the meaning of nation by examining maps showing political features of the Navajo Nation. Finally, students synthesize their learning in a Discussion Diamond and then choose a map to use for evidence in answering the supporting question.

Mexico and Canada

Cluster 3 begins with an opportunity to ask questions about the geography of Mexico and Canada through interaction with a population map. Students learn general information about Mexico and Canada by reading an article about each. Students then choose one of the countries for a small research project. They investigate multiple sources and create a slide presentation to share their learning with others. In the process, they learn about key topics that are important when studying geography: population density, land features, plants and animals, economy, and culture. Finally, students present their work to a partner who studied a different country.