Week 4: Tuesday

The Great Continental Debate

Warm-Up: Continental Poll (click on blue hyperlink)

How do we define a "continent"?
 (Is there any consensus on what factors determine a continent? And how many there are?)
Intro to Today's Discussion: "How Does Perception Shape How We View The Earth?"
Sometimes the way we define and categorize things on Earth is based on science, sometimes its based on perspective (such as cultural perspective...where you are from often shapes your view of ...well...literally... the world...), and sometimes its based on historical convention  (because its been known that way for a very long time and taught that way in school where you live)...how do we sort it all out and know for sure? Or does it really matter? 
Let's Discuss--or DEBATE this.
Some Geography Articles to Consider:

• Geography Facts about the World's Continents
• National Geographic's Explanation
• The case of Australia vs. Greenland. And Australia wins.
• The Continents of the World by NationsOnline.org

Class Activity:

• Group Activity: Decide on Number of Continents - Demonstrate, Explain, Debate
• Individual Activity: Mapping Our Continents (this is a ExitTix Activity)- use atlas pages of textbook to help you

Extension: Further Thoughts...What about our Oceans?

• How Many Oceans are There, REALLY?

Just for fun...