Message from gmzarou

[Anonymous]

I find a good way to lock that geography knowledge in is to tie geographic features to cultural development. For example, an island nation breeds skilled fisherman, tropical cultures respect and fear the hurricane (monsoon), etc.

Re: Asia, try showing the kids elevation maps of China. Maptell (http://www.maptell.com/maps/webmap/world/worldelev.htm) provides a nice, full-color elevation map of anywhere in the world. Or I also like this one of China from AskAsia.org (http://www.askasia.org/images/teachers/media/43.gif)

Then, ask them questions like, "Why do you think the Ancient Chinese settled in the northern plain?" "Why do you think China was isolated from the rest of the world in ancient times?" "Why do you think a number of different cultures developed in China in ancient times?" to get them thinking about how geography affects culture. Plus, when they think of China from now on, it will no longer just be a big red blob on the map, but they will have an appreciation for the rich geographic diversity (mountains, deserts, etc.).

m@x