Thinking Like A Geographer Chapter 1, Section 1

Physical Characteristics Geography- the study of the earth in all its variety. Physical Characteristics- geographers look at where something is located and what it is like. Ask: “What features make a place similar to or different from other places?”

Human Characteristics Do many people live there? Do they live close together or far apart? What kind of government do they have?

People and Places Geographers also are very interested in how people interact with the environment, or surroundings. Where people live and how they live.

Regions Geographers also carefully study individual cities, rivers, and other landforms. Regions are defined by shared characteristics. Some regions include several countries.

Uses of Geography Planning communities Handling disasters New housing Businesses may decide to close or relocate Manage resources

Who cares? Written records Artifacts Fossils