CULTURE AND GEOGRAPHY

course overview

Grades 1st – 8th

Tuesdadys & Thursdays

12:30 pm – 2:00 pm

February 3 – May 23, 2025

Facilitator: TBA

Capacity: 15 scholars

$650

This course is ideal for scholars who possess a curiosity about the world, a willingness to engage in interactive activities, and an open-minded attitude toward exploring different cultures.

This course introduces scholars to the fundamentals of geography while exploring the rich cultural diversity of our world. Each week focuses on a specific region, teaching geographic concepts alongside cultural highlights such as traditions, languages, food, and landmarks. Scholars will engage in hands-on activities, discussions, and collaborative projects to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the world.

Scholars will gain foundational knowledge of world geography, including continents, countries, and major landforms; develop an appreciation for cultural diversity through exploration of traditions, languages, and arts; build skills in map reading, critical thinking, and creative expression; and collaborate on projects that celebrate global connections and cultural understanding.

  • Introduction to Geography
    • Understanding maps: continents, oceans, and basic map skills.
  • North America
    • Geography: Major landforms, climate, and natural resources.
    • Culture: Indigenous peoples, traditions, and modern cultural highlights.
  • Central and South America
    • Geography: Rainforests, mountains, and rivers (e.g., Amazon).
    • Culture: Music, food, and traditions like Carnival.
  • Europe
    • Geography: Countries, capitals, and major landmarks.
    • Culture: Art, cuisine, and famous festivals.
  • Africa
    • Geography: Deserts, savannas, and the Nile River.
    • Culture: Languages, music, and traditions from different regions.
  • Asia 
    • Geography: Mountains, rivers, and diverse climates.
    • Culture: Focus on East Asia (China, Japan, Korea) – traditions, food, and festivals.
    • Geography: The Middle East and South Asia – deserts and mountain ranges.
    • Culture: History, art, and cuisine from regions like India and Saudi Arabia.
  • Oceania
    • Geography: Islands, coral reefs, and the outback.
    • Culture: Indigenous traditions, art, and languages.
  • Antarctica

    • Geography: Ice caps, climate, and wildlife.
    • Culture: The scientific research community.
  • Arctic and Indigenous Cultures

    • Geography: Arctic Circle and tundra ecosystems.
    • Culture: Inuit traditions and Arctic exploration.
  • Global Trade and Resources

    • Geography: Natural resources and global interconnections.
    • Culture: How trade shapes cultures and economies.
  • World Languages

    • Geography: Language families and regional dialects.
    • Culture: Explore greetings and common phrases in various languages.
  • Music and Art Around the World

    • Geography: How geography influences art and music.
    • Culture: Focus on traditional instruments and art forms.
  • Food and Festivals

    • Geography: How climate and resources shape food cultures.
    • Culture: Festivals and food traditions from around the world.
  • Environmental Awareness

    • Geography: Climate change and conservation efforts worldwide.
    • Culture: Indigenous knowledge and sustainable practices.
  • Global Connections and Final Showcase

    • Geography: Recap of global themes and connections.
    • Culture: Reflect on what was learned about different cultures.

Spring

Week 1:  February 4 and 6

Week 2:  February 11 and 13

Week 3:  February 18 and 20

Week 4:  February 25 and 27

Week 5:  March 4 and 6

Week 6:  March 11 and 13

Week 7:  March 18 and 20

Week 8:  March 25 and 27

Week 9:  April 1 and 3

Week 10:  April 8 and 10

Week 11:  April 15 and 17

Week 12:  April 22 and 24

Week 13:  April 29 and May 1

Week 14:  May 6 and 8

Week 15:  May 13 and 15

Week 16:  May 20 and 22