Unit 1 - Lesson 7: Analyzing a Geography Textbook

Big Ideas of the Lesson

A geography textbook can be a useful tool for in investigating global problems.

Organizational features in geography textbooks include a table of contents, an index,
an atlas, and a glossary.
Graphic features enhance the text of geography textbooks. They include maps, charts,
photographs, diagrams, and graphs.
Making use of text features such as bold text and headings can help you better
understand what you read.

Lesson Abstract:
In this lesson students analyze a geography textbook as a resource for investigating global
problems and solutions. It begins with students making a simple graphic organizer describing the
structure of the textbook. Students then explore the structure of a unit, chapter, and lesson. They
also examine graphic and text features found in the textbook. Next, students locate specific parts
of the textbook that could be useful to investigate global problems and solutions during the year
using the index to find information included in the textbook. Finally, students identify the strengths
and weaknesses of the textbook as a tool for investigating global problems and evaluating global
solutions.
Content Expectations: 6 th - G1.2.1
Common Core State Standards: RH.6-8.1, 2, and 7
Key Concepts
global
spatial scales