Elements of Geography - Index

Instructor: J. Lopez, Ph.D.

Telephone:

507-389-1890

507-382-0497

Office:

218 I Armstrong Hall

Electronic mail:

jose.lopez@mnsu.edu

Office Hours:

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday

If I am not in my office, please call

507-382-0497

Optional Textbook:

Dahlman & Renwick. 2014.

Introduction to Geography, 6th Edition.

Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Course Objectives

This course provides students with an introduction to the basic themes of geography. The class explores topics about the physical and human characteristics of the Earth's surface. The study of natural and cultural landscapes is a very important component of this experience, and we examine physiographic regions, climates, demography, and urban areas. Also, we will discuss different environmental issues.

Expected Outcomes

At the end of the semester, the participants of this course should be able to:

1. Describe different types of physical regions.

2. View culture and environment as interrelated agents, necessary to understand our diverse planet.

3. Appreciate the diversity of our planet.

Course Requirements

Students should read the relevant material in the textbook before it is covered in lecture. It is the responsibility of the individual student to attend each class meeting, to actively participate in a "learning team," and to be prepared to enter into a discussion of the material under consideration.

First Test: Chapters 1 and 2.

Chapter 1: Thinking Geographically

Chapter 2: Weather, Climate, and Climate Change

Second Test: Chapters 3 and 4.

Chapter 3: Landforms

Chapter 4: Biosphere

Final Exam: Chapters 6 and 10.

Chapter 6: Population

Chapter 10: Cities and Urbanization

Check our D2L page for exam dates.

Exams

Test questions may be definitions, multiple choice, matching, or map questions. They will cover materials discussed in your text. Your performance in the following four areas will determine your final course grade:

Exam 1 - 20% of course grade

Exam 2 - 20% of course grade

Final exam - 20% of course grade

Assignments and Quizzes - 40% of course grade

Course Policies and Rules

It is my policy that disrespectful behavior, lack of consideration towards the participants of the course, tardiness, or any disturbance on your part will influence my decision regarding your final grade.

Under special circumstances, I will give you additional time to complete a test. If you did not complete a test on time, I would give you a make-up exam if you provide a documented valid excuse.

Valid excuses include

• personal illness, as verified by a valid medical excuse;

• death or critical illness in the immediate family;

• participation in a university-sponsored activity;

• military service;

• law enforcement or public safety service.

If you examine MSUM’s Student Handbook (the “Students’ Responsibilities” section), you will find that item number two lists the following policy:

“Individuals will respect and foster the academic endeavors of others. Minnesota State Mankato exists to promote learning, and as such, students must behave in such a way to allow the process of learning to take place by group or individual. Examples of violations include but are not limited to: harassment of a faculty member; disrupting teaching or learning... intentionally altering, inhibiting, or stealing another person's research...”

Disrespectful e-mails or hostile phone calls won't be tolerated and I will ask disruptive students to quit the course.

A student may be dropped from a course by the administration if disrespectful behaviors persist and I recommend this action. Raised voices, temper tantrums, and offensive e-mails will not change my 26-year-old policy. I give occasional quizzes during the semester. Please check the course calendar regularly.

Quizzes and assignments may differ in value (points) depending on their complexity. Do not expect that an elementary assignment will have the same worth as a more complicated exercise.

The syllabus serves as a guideline and is subject to change, depending on circumstances as the semester progresses.

If you are a student with a documented disability, please see me as early in the semester as possible to discuss the necessary accommodations, and/or contact the Disability Services Office at (507) 389-2825.

Preparation for Taking Tests

1. Identify the material you have difficulty understanding and with which you may need assistance (contact me if you have questions; my phone number is 382-0497). Find answers to your questions as soon as possible.

2. Go over class notes and notes made when reading. Make additional notes from your textbooks to clarify the material.

3. Don't resort to frenzied, last minute preparation (plan your studying so that you finish early and get a good rest on the night before an examination).

4. Check your list of main points (key concepts). Complete a careful and thorough review, then try to forget about the test. Be confident -- you have done your best.

5. Read the entire exam carefully. Answer the questions about which you know the most first, leaving space for those you will work on later. Read each question very carefully. Be sure you follow the instructions. Skip those questions which you cannot answer immediately. The answer may come to you later.