Grade 10

GEOGRAPHIC ISSUES OF THE 21ST CENTURY

GE20F

Ms. T. Tuchscherer Room 105 St. James Collegiate

Email: tara.tuchscherer@sjasd.ca
Website: tuchscherer.weebly.com

Course Description:
In this course we will explore the nature of the geographic endeavor and develop skills
related to geographical thinking. To achieve these goals, we will use a number of
resources, including your textbook, atlases, documentaries, educational films, current
articles, news reports and classroom discussion. Through our study, you should become
aware of the importance of the environment, stewardship, and sustainable development,
as well as the social, political and economic implications of our choices in everyday life.

Course Outline:
Cluster 1: Geographical Literacy 3 weeks
In this unit, you will have the opportunity to become familiar with the discipline
of geography and its importance.

Unit 2: Natural Resources 4 weeks

You will learn about the variety and locations of the world’s natural resources,
which influence where people live and the kinds of economic activities they are
engaged in.

Unit 3: Food from the Land 5 weeks

We will inquire into the production and acquisition of the basic human necessity
of food. We will consider issues related to the industrial food system, the impact
of climate change and the concerns regarding genetic modification.

Unit 4: Industry and Trade 3 weeks

We will look into the terminology related to industry and trade, examine the
different levels of industry, identify the factors that determine the location of
industries, and understand the implications arising from globalization.

Unit 5: Urban Places 2 weeks

We will consider the factors that influence the location of cities, the various
functions of urban places, and identify the factors leading to the emergence of
mega cities around the world. We will also investigate the major environmental,
economic, and social issues facing modern urban centres.
 Grade 10
GEOGRAPHIC ISSUES OF THE 21ST CENTURY
GE20F

Textbooks:
Geographic Issues of the Twenty-First Century. Clark & Wallace, 2005
Pearson School Atlas

Course Assessment and Outcomes:

Knowledge and Understanding: Has the student learned the course material? This
general learning outcome will be assessed through multiple choice, fill in the blank, and
short answer questioning.

Research and Communication: Can the student discuss the materials they have
learned in detail, draw conclusions, and explain and/or interpret information? This
general learning outcome will be assessed through essays, research projects, persuasive
arguments and questions focused around comparing and contrasting various course
materials.

Critical Thinking and Citizenship: Can the student analyze and assess the value of
the material they have learned? In assessing this general learning outcome, we will
focus on comparing primary and secondary sources, identifying perspective and intent,
and the use of proper citation with regards to works referenced.
 Grade 10
GEOGRAPHIC ISSUES OF THE 21ST CENTURY
GE20F

COURSE EXPECTATIONS

This is your education. Please care about it.

Be ready to learn every day – in class or at home!

Respect
The number one rule is that both the instructor and the students must be respectful - to
each other, to themselves, and to their surroundings.

• I am committed to help you succeed in this course. If you have any questions or
concerns regarding course material, please feel free to discuss them with me.

• You are expected to engage with the material presented in this course by
participating in class discussions and classroom/at-home/online activities.

• You are expected to arrive to class on time and be in class every scheduled day.

• The use of cell phone and listening devices is permitted in the classroom only
under the teacher’s discretion. Devices can be listened to at a reasonable volume
so as not to distract others when appropriate (ie. not during the delivery of a
lesson).

• You are expected to complete all course work, and to do so on time. Most
students who fail a course do so because assignments have not been submitted.
Assignments can be submitted online through Teams or on paper in class.

• If you are absent, it is your responsibility to complete any missed notes and
assignments and to consult with your teacher to reschedule any missed tests.
Course notes, assignments and links to reference materials/videos will be
uploaded in Teams for you to access in case of absence.

Plagiarism
Plagiarism is the use of the words, thoughts, and ideas of another person without
acknowledgement. This will include copying from other students currently taking the
class or from another semester. Plagiarism will result in the student being given a zero
for the assignment, as well as any administrative consequences that are deemed
necessary and appropriate.
GE20F: ENDURING UNDERSTANDINGS:
(Manitoba Rural Learning Consortium)
Cluster/Theme: What are the big ideas?
What should you take away from this course?
• Geographic knowledge and skills are important in personal and collective decision-making.
• Geography involves understanding the dynamic interrelationships between the physical and
human aspects of the world.
Geographical
• Geography explores connections and perceptions of place and personal identity over time.
Literacy • Geography encourages a proactive approach in preserving the well-being of our planet.
• Geographers use global environmental types for classifying physical factors influencing human
activity.
• Resource extraction and consumption have implications for both developed and less-
Natural developed nations. Personal choices impact the sustainability of natural resources.
• There are diverse perspectives about natural resource ownership and development that can
Resources change over time.
• The type and distribution of natural resources influence human activities.
• Decisions regarding agriculture and food production are influenced by a variety of physical and
human factors.
• Food production and distribution occurs in stages, is affected by human factors, and changes
Food From over time.
the Land • Contemporary issues and personal choices influence food production and consumption.
• Physical environment and human actions affect the food supply and our food choices have
environmental consequences.
• Decisions regarding the location of industries are influenced by a variety of factors.
Industry and • There are a variety of factors that influence local, national and international industry and trade.
• Globalization and personal consumer choices impact industry and trade.
Trade

• People live in rural, urban and remote settlements for a variety of reasons.
Urban Places • The location and function of urban centres is determined by a variety of factors.
• There are many factors that influence the development of urban centres.
• Urbanization influences Canadian ways of life.