Section 2 : The Geographer’s Craft Chapter 1 Section 2 : The Geographer’s Craft

Objectives List the branches of geography Explain the work of Geographers

Branches of Geography The two major branches of geography are physical geography and human geography. Physical geography focuses on the study of the earth’s physical features. Human geography (or cultural geography) is the study of human activities and their relationship to the cultural and physical environments.

Branches of Geography These two areas are broken down into smaller subject areas. Examples: Meteorology Historical Geography

Direct Observation Geographers will often visit a region to gather specific information about the region and its geographical features. They use aerial photos and satellite images to directly observe an area.

Mapping Geographic specialists who make and design maps are known as cartographers. Maps allow visual explanations of things that are difficult to be explained in text. Maps also offer visual comparisons.

Interviewing Geographers also find how people think or feel about certain places. Study how their beliefs have led to changes in the environment. Geographers chose a sampling of people to interview.

Statistics Some of the information geographers use is numerical. Geographers use computers to organize the information and they analyze the data and trends

Technology Geographers use a variety of different technologies such as satellites and computers. Satelittes orbit the earth and carry remote sensors, radar, and high tech cameras and they gather information about the environment, weather, human settlement, and vegetation.

Geographical information systems (GIS) are computer tools that process and organize data and satellite images. Computer technology has also changed mapmaking. (Maps are stored as layers so changed can be made easily)

Objectives Explain the study of geography in relation to other disciples. List the various ways geography can be utilized as a career choice

Geography and other Disciplines Geographers study both the physical and human features of the earth and analyze the patterns and relationships among geographers and other disciplines. They study subjects such as history, government, sociology, and economics to better understand how each of these subjects affect and are affected by geography

History History is used to understand what places look like in the past. This process is done by gathering information about a time period in a locations history. Can be used to answer questions about how people used the area and how the area has changed. By studying the past, geographers can help people make better decisions and plans for the future.

Government Geographers study political science to help them see how people in different places are governed. Study how political boundaries have formed and have been changed. Geographers are interested in how the natural environment has influenced political decisions and how governments change natural environments.

Culture Geographers use sociology and anthropology to study cultures around the world. They study the relationship between the physical environment and social structures, such as peoples way of life in different parts of the world. Study how cultures affect the environment and the environment affects culture.

Economics Economics is studied to better understand how the location of resources affect the way people make, transport, and use goods and how services are provided. Geographers look at how people are interdependent in regards to economic activities around the world.

Geography as a Career Many people trained in geography do not have geography in their job title. Geography is often incorporated into various careers, such as sales, travel, etc. The chart on page 26 shows a variety of different geography careers.

Closure Sentence: How can you apply geography in your everyday life?

Assessment Page 27 1-6