Investigating Local Geography

Start with what’s familiar! Local projects are often the most engaging.

• Local Land Use Mapping and Analysis

  Students create a map of their local area (neighborhood, town, or city) identifying different land uses (residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, recreational). They can use GIS software or even create a hand-drawn map. The analysis should include why these land uses are located where they are, the benefits and drawbacks of the current land use patterns, and potential future changes. Consider incorporating population density data. Extension: Propose a new land use project, justifying its location and benefits.

• Local Water Resources Study

  Examine the local water sources (rivers, lakes, groundwater). Investigate their quality, use (drinking water, irrigation, recreation), and potential threats (pollution, overuse, climate change). Students can collect water samples for testing (with proper safety precautions and adult supervision), research local water management policies, and propose solutions for ensuring sustainable water use. Include interviews with local water managers or environmental groups.

• Geographic History of a Local Landmark

  Choose a significant local landmark (building, park, bridge, etc.). Research its history, focusing on the geographic factors that influenced its location, construction, and use. How did the landscape, resources, or transportation networks play a role? Trace changes over time and how those changes impacted the landmark. A museum exhibit or digital timeline would be an engaging output.

• Urban Heat Island Effect Investigation

  For students in urban areas, investigate the urban heat island effect. Compare temperatures in different areas (parks, industrial zones, residential areas) using thermometers or temperature sensors. Analyze the data to determine the extent of the heat island effect in their city. Research mitigation strategies such as planting trees or using reflective building materials. Students can present their findings to local government officials.

Exploring Global Geography

Venture beyond the familiar to explore global issues and connections.

• Climate Change Impact Case Study

  Focus on a specific region significantly impacted by climate change (e.g., the Arctic, the Maldives, the Sahel). Research the observed and projected impacts on the environment, economy, and society. Analyze the causes and consequences of climate change in that region. Explore potential adaptation and mitigation strategies. A multimedia presentation or website would effectively showcase the research.

• Mapping Global Migration Patterns

  Investigate global migration flows, focusing on the push and pull factors that drive migration. Create maps showing migration routes and analyze the economic, social, and political impacts of migration on both sending and receiving countries. Consider specific refugee crises or economic migration patterns. Utilize data visualizations to represent complex migration trends. Students could conduct interviews with immigrants in their community (with appropriate ethical considerations).

• Analyzing Global Food Security

  Examine the factors that contribute to food insecurity in different regions of the world. Investigate the roles of climate, agriculture, economics, and political instability. Analyze the impact of food insecurity on health, education, and social development. Research potential solutions, such as sustainable agriculture, improved irrigation, or food aid programs. Create a comparative analysis of different countries or regions.

• Comparative Study of Urbanization

  Compare and contrast the urbanization processes in two different cities, one in a developed country and one in a developing country. Examine the causes and consequences of urbanization in each city, focusing on issues such as housing, transportation, pollution, and inequality. Analyze the challenges and opportunities associated with urban growth in each context. A photo essay comparing the cities could be a compelling output.

Data-Driven Geography Projects

Harness the power of data to uncover geographic patterns and insights.

• Population Density and Resource Availability Analysis

  Using publicly available data, analyze the relationship between population density and the availability of resources (water, food, energy) in different regions. Identify areas where resource scarcity is a major challenge. Explore the environmental and social consequences of resource scarcity. Develop policy recommendations for addressing resource management issues.

• Economic Inequality Mapping and Analysis

  Use GIS software to create maps showing income inequality or wealth distribution in a specific region (e.g., a city, a state, or a country). Analyze the geographic patterns of inequality and identify the factors that contribute to these patterns (e.g., education, employment, housing). Explore the social and economic consequences of inequality. Compare different measures of inequality (e.g., Gini coefficient, poverty rate).

• Accessibility to Healthcare Analysis

  Map the location of healthcare facilities (hospitals, clinics, pharmacies) in a specific area. Overlay this map with population data to analyze the accessibility of healthcare services for different communities. Identify areas where healthcare access is limited. Analyze the factors that contribute to healthcare disparities. Propose solutions for improving healthcare accessibility in underserved areas.

Tips for Success

• Choose a topic that genuinely interests you.
• Start with a clear research question.
• Gather reliable data from credible sources.
• Use maps and other visuals to communicate your findings effectively.
• Present your findings in a clear, concise, and engaging manner.