The 5 Themes of Geography Chapter 1, Section 1

Geography – study of the distribution and interaction of physical and human features on the Earth maps are the most common tool other tools are charts, graphs, tables, and models

Theme 1 – Location “Where is it?” Absolute location – exact location Earth is divided into hemispheres Equator divides north and south Prime Meridian divides east and west latitude lines run parallel with the equator longitude lines go around the poles Relative location – describes a place in comparison to other places

Theme 2 - Place “What is it like?” physical features climate, landforms, vegetation, human development cultural characteristics food, religion, community celebrations

Theme 3 - Region “How are places similar or different?” areas are grouped together based on similar characteristics Formal regions Defined by a small number of related characteristics Ex: U.S., Canada, Latin America, etc. Functional regions Organized around the interactions and connections of different places. Ex: Houston and it’s suburbs Perceptual regions People perceive the characteristics of the region in the same way

Theme 4 – Human-Environment Interaction “How do people relate to the physical world?” We alter the environment to fit our needs Examples: building homes, cutting down trees, creating lakes

Theme 5 - Movement “How do people, goods, and ideas move from one location to another?” 3 types of distance 1. linear – how far 2. time – how long both are relative to circumstances (ex. traffic) 3. psychological – how we view how far away something is

Exit Ticket On you sticky answer one of the following: How would you describe the location of Mansfield using relative or absolute location? What is one way you have altered your environment to fit your lifestyle? What is one example of movement that you have experienced in your life?