Course Overview: This class provides an in-depth exploration of the geography of the United States, covering its diverse landscapes, climates, and regional cultures. Students will learn about natural resources, economic activities, and historical influences that shape each region. The course emphasizes critical thinking through map reading, environmental studies, and regional analysis.

Topics Include:

• U.S. regions and physical features

• Climate patterns and ecosystems

• Human-environment interaction

• Economic geography and trade routes

• National parks and environmental issue

Week 1-2: Introduction to Geography & Maps

• Understanding regions, geography, natural resources.

• Focus: Map reading and identifying U.S. regions.

Week 3: The United States

• Overview of U.S. geography, hemispheres, and borders.

Week 4: New England

• Geography and industries of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

• Focus: Historical development and economy.

Week 5: The Mid-Atlantic Region

• Geography and major cities in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington, D.C.

• Focus: Population density and historical landmarks.

Week 6-7: The South

• Geography and physical features of Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and others.

• Focus: Regional culture and history (Civil War, agriculture).

Week 8: The Midwest

• Agricultural importance of Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin.

• Focus: The Great Lakes and industrial cities.

Week 9: The Great Plains

• Flatlands and farming regions like Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska.

• Focus: Breadbasket of the U.S.

Week 10-11: The Rocky Mountain Region

• Exploring Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Utah.

• Focus: Mountainous geography and tourism.

Week 12: The Southwest

• Landscapes and climates of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada.

• Focus: Cowboys, oil fields, and Mexican cultural influence.

Week 13-14: The West Coast

• Exploring California, Oregon, Washington.

• Focus: Coastal cities, tech industry, and natural wonders like the Redwood Forest.

Week 15: Alaska and Hawaii

• Unique geographical features and climates.

• Focus: Islands and northernmost U.S. state.

Week 16: Major Rivers and Lakes

• Overview of the Mississippi River, Missouri River, and the Great Lakes.

• Focus: Importance in commerce and agriculture.

Week 17: U.S. National Parks

• Study of parks such as Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, and Great Smoky Mountains.

Week 18: Climate and Weather Patterns

• Understanding diverse climates across U.S. regions.

• Focus: Tornado Alley and coastal climates.

Week 19: Native American Influence

• Indigenous cultures and geographical adaptation.

• Focus: Reservations and early settlement.

Week 20-21: Economic Geography

• Agriculture, mining, and industry across U.S. regions.

• Focus: How geography influences economics.

Week 22: Transportation and Trade Routes

• Historical and modern trade routes (rivers, railroads, highways).

• Focus: How geography supports commerce.

Week 23: Environmental Challenges

• Study of environmental issues like erosion, deforestation, and climate change.

• Focus: Conservation efforts.

Week 24: Review

• Recap of all major regions and geographical themes covered.

Week 25: Final Project Presentation

• Students present research projects on a chosen U.S. region, highlighting geography, culture, and economy.