Content

The content of the Elective 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:

E 4.1	identifies and gathers geographical information
E 4.2	organises and interprets geographical information
E 4.3	uses a range of written, oral and graphic forms to communicate geographical information
E 4.4	demonstrates a sense of place about environments outside Australia
E 4.5	describes the geographical processes that form and transform environments
E 4.6	describes the physical, cultural and economic diversity of the Asia-Pacific region
E 4.7	identifies the causes and consequences of political tensions and conflicts at local, national and global scales
E 4.8	identifies and describes the interrelationships between communities, work and settlement
E 4.9	identifies and describes spatial patterns of economic and social wellbeing at a global scale.

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

E 5.1	identifies, gathers and evaluates geographical information
E 5.2	analyses, organises and synthesises geographical information
E 5.3	selects and uses appropriate written, oral and graphic forms to communicate geographical information
E 5.4	demonstrates a sense of place about environments
E 5.5	analyses the impacts of physical processes on environments
E 5.6	accounts for the physical, cultural and economic diversity of the Asia-Pacific region
E 5.7	explains the roles and responsibilities of individuals, groups and governments in resolving political tensions and conflicts
E 5.8	analyses the interrelationships between communities, work and settlement
E 5.9	explains the spatial patterns of economic and social wellbeing at a global scale.

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 identify and 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.