Course Description
See reviews of instructor Nate Gilbert
Would you like to travel to many countries and see the world while enjoying the comforts of your own home? If so, you have come to the right course! This course is structured in such a way to introduce the general principles of geographic study while regularly diving deep into sundry cultures. This is illustrated by the weekly outline:
Week 1 – Geography and World Overview
Week 2 – Asia Overview
Week 3 – East Asia Focus: Korea
Week 4 – South Asia Focus: India
Week 5 – West Asia Focus: Israel
Week 6 – Africa Overview
Week 7 – Africa Focus: Tanzania
Week 8 – Europe Overview
Week 9 – Europe Focus: Ireland
Week 10 – South America Overview
Week 11 – South America Focus: Peru
Week 12 – North America Overview
Week 13 – North America Focus: Panama
Week 14 – Oceania Overview
Week 15 – Oceania Focus: Papua New Guinea
Week 16 – Review of World Geography
In this class students will learn about the physical world, human interactions with their surroundings, and systems that humans have developed in various regions. Of course, much time will be allotted to the study and understanding of maps (one of a geographer’s primary tools). The course is centered around the six essential elements of the National Geographic Standards that were created by the National Council for Geographic Education. These elements are 1) The World in Spatial Terms, 2) Places and Regions, 3) Physical Systems, 4) Human Systems, 5) Environment and Society, and 6) The Uses of Geography. So, as we move from region to region, students will gain an understanding of key physical characteristics (like landforms and climate) while also exploring the cultures and histories that make people groups unique.
Course Structure
The course includes a weekly live class that will be engaging, with group discussions and plenty of pictures from around the world. Students will have a quiz and various homework assignments to complete during the week, which will reinforce and expand upon the classroom discussions. Assignments will include map skills practice, geography activities, and culture studies. There is an estimated 2-3 hours of work per week outside of the live class. Recordings are soon available after each class for review or catch up work.
Who should enroll?
This class is recommended for the 7th grade level (or higher).
Technology Requirements:
- High speed, broadband Internet
- Sound card and microphone (for live sessions)
- Streaming video capabilities to watch recorded lectures
Since there will be map activities, students may be asked to scan or take pictures of certain assignments for submission.
Evaluation and Feedback
Students will receive comments and individualized feedback on their assignments via Canvas. Work will be graded and student questions will be addressed in a timely manner.
Communication
Parents do not need to contact me before registering for this class. I will confirm registration with parents and provide a welcome email to students. All parents should join Canvas as observers, and I will respond to all parental questions.
Tatiana L. –
I really like how everyone is involved with the class. Mr. Gilbert is always letting us go on mic and give our opinions about whatever subject is being discussed. I find that very helpful. Especially hearing all of the students give their opinions because it helps me keep an open mind. It as well, helps me learn more and gives me something to think about.
Meski Zgirdea –
Mr. Gilbert is very knowledgable, well researched and gives great presentations. I found the class very interesting and it never got me bored. I highly recommend this class.
Eliyahu Masinter –
Mr. Gilbert is, as always, an outstanding teacher and communicator. Class time was used effectively and the assignments were relevant and helpful. He is always quick to respond by email and will answer any question you have, whether it is during the current class or the next. I took this class, not because of my passion for Geography, rather, I took it because Mr. Giblert was teaching the course. Even if you’re not interested in Geography, I would certainly recommend taking the class because it is very rare to have such an outstanding teacher as Mr. Gilbert.
Michael Martin –
Nate Gilbert is an amazing teacher and does a phenomenal job of keeping the students engaged and learning. He’s really nice and has such a curious personality. I’d highly recommend taking this course.