Geography

Geography is about determining the significance of “place” as it relates to the natural environment, the human environment, and interactions within and between them. To investigate geographic issues, students must analyse the influences and interrelationships that give a place its distinctive characteristics and thus its spatial importance. Geographic analysis also requires an investigation of the economic, environmental, social, and political perspectives that relate to an issue. The application of the concepts of geographic thinking, spatial skills, and the use of field studies are central to the geographic inquiry process and the learning of geography.

The four concepts of geographic thinking – spatial significance, patterns and trends, interrelationships, and geographic perspective – underpin thinking and learning in all geography courses in the Canadian and world studies program. At least one concept of geographic thinking is identified as the focus for each overall expectation in strands B–E of these courses. The following chart describes each concept and provides sample questions related to it. These questions highlight opportunities for students to apply a specific concept in their studies.

In the Grade 9 geography course, students will develop their ability to apply both the geographic inquiry process and the concepts of geographic thinking. They apply this process and these concepts as they investigate geographic issues in Canada and deepen their awareness of interconnections between Canadian and global issues. These courses enhance students’ ability to act as responsible global citizens and environmental stewards. Students will develop their spatial skills as they analyse information and data obtained from diverse sources, including field studies, aerial photographs, satellite imaging, various types of maps and graphs, geographic information systems (GIS), and digital representations.

Moreover, this course examines geography of Canada based upon its provinces and territories. Students will explore Canadian environment, economic worth, land, minerals, water, social geographic issues relating to topics such as transportation options, energy choices, and urban development. Students will apply the concepts of geographic thinking and the geographic inquiry process, including spatial technologies, to investigate various geographic issues and to develop possible approaches for making Canada a more sustainable place in which to live.

In addition to it, The Grade 9 geography courses provide students with opportunities to explore these three aspects of geography as they investigate geographic issues in Canada. In these courses, students will examine issues relating to interactions between physical processes and people living in Canada; changing populations in this country; economic and environmental sustainability; and interconnections between Canada and the global community.