Content - Stages 4 and 5

The content of the Mandatory course comprises:

The content described in Geographical Tools, Geographical Skills, and Values and Attitudes is to be integrated with the content in the Focus Areas.

Geographical Tools

The discipline of Geography provides a unique opportunity for an integrated study of the spatial and ecological dimensions of the world. Geographers have a set of tools they use in undertaking this study. In both the Mandatory and Elective courses in Geography Stages 4–5, students are expected to learn about these tools and how to use them as they develop the skills of geographical inquiry.

In learning about geographical tools, a student will work towards the following Stage 4 outcomes:

4.1	identifies and gathers geographical information
4.2	organises and interprets geographical information
4.3	uses a range of written, oral and graphic forms to communicate geographical information
4.4	demonstrates a sense of place about environments outside Australia
4.5	describes the geographical processes that form and transform environments
4.6	identifies and discusses geographical issues from a range of perspectives
4.7	describes the interrelationships between people and environments
4.8	describes differences in life opportunities throughout the world in terms of social, cultural, economic and physical environments
4.9	explains how geographical knowledge, understanding and skills contribute to active and informed citizenship.

In learning about geographical tools, a student will work towards the following Stage 5 outcomes:

5.1	identifies, gathers and evaluates geographical information
5.2	analyses, organises and synthesises geographical information
5.3	selects and uses appropriate written, oral and graphic forms to communicate geographical information
5.4	demonstrates a sense of place about Australian environments
5.5	explains the geographical processes that form and transform Australian environments
5.6	analyses the impact of different perspectives on geographical issues at local, national and global scales
5.7	explains Australia’s links with other countries and its role in the global community
5.8	accounts for differences within and between Australian communities
5.9	applies geographical knowledge, understanding and skills to demonstrate active and informed citizenship.

Geographical Tool	Stage 4 Content Note: The content described below should be integrated with the content in the focus areas. In working towards Stage 4 outcomes, students will learn to:
Maps	use an atlas use various types of maps: physical, political, topographic, thematic and flow charts identify and use elements of maps, including legend, direction, title, scale distinguish between different types of map projections locate features on a map using: latitude and longitude area and grid references measure distances on a map using a linear scale use the points of a compass and divide maps into quadrants identify and interpret relief using hachures, shading, spot heights, colour and contour lines identify the aspect of a slope construct a sketch map divide a map into geographical regions, listing and describing the key features and identifying spatial associations read and interpret weather maps.
Fieldwork	use geographical instruments, including: a compass to determine direction a field sketch to record data a thermometer, barometer, rain gauge, anemometer, wind vane, hygrometer, light meter to measure and record weather data a Beaufort wind scale and cloud identification chart to interpret weather conditions collect and record data in the field, including: design and conduct interviews construct and implement surveys use photography to record data in the field.
Graphs and Statistics	identify and calculate maximum, minimum, total, range, rank and average construct and interpret bar, column, line, climatic and proportional graphs.
Photographs	draw a photo sketch distinguish between oblique, aerial, ground scale photographs and satellite imagery use and interpret photographic images.

Geographical Tool	Stage 5 Content Note: The content described below should be integrated with the content in the focus areas. In working towards Stage 5 outcomes, students will continue to learn the Stage 4 content about Geographical Tools and will also learn to:
Maps	estimate the area of a feature identify bearings on a map calculate local relief construct a cross section construct a transect and use evidence to explain changes along the transect describe and explain relationships on maps read, interpret and predict changing weather patterns identify scale as a representative fraction distinguish between large and small maps.
Fieldwork	devise a plan of investigation interpret and analyse field data develop a research plan evaluate alternative solutions communicate research findings take action to demonstrate active citizenship.
Graphs and Statistics	describe and interpret population pyramids calculate percentage change using statistical data recognise and account for change using statistical data.
Photographs	interpret satellite images.