Chapter 1 Lesson 2

A Geographic Perspective Geographers focus on understanding the world and answering questions about it Special perspective for looking at the world, called spatial perspective Additionally, local and global perspective, ecological perspective, and perspective of experience

Skills for Thinking like a Geographer Asking geographic questions Helps you pose questions about your surroundings Acquiring geographic information Helps you answer geographic questions Organizing geographic information Helps you analyze and interpret information you have collected Analyzing geographic information Helps you look for patterns, relationships, and connections Answering geographic questions Helps you apply information to real-life situations and problem-solving

Elements of Geography 6 overall elements The world in spatial terms Places and regions Physical systems Human systems Environment and society Uses of geography

3 Types of Regions Formal region Features a unifying characteristic Example: Corn Belt Functional region Central node and surrounding areas that are connected Example: Cell phone reception area Perceptual region Defined by a more commonly accepted tradition or value Example: Bible Belt

Formal Region

Functional Region

Perceptual Region

Research Methods of Geographers Direct observation and measurement Mapping Interviewing Use of statistics Use of technology