1. The Branches of Geography

2. 1. Physical Geography – the study of the world’s physical features – its landforms, bodies of water, climates, soils, and plants.

3. ** Physical geographers want to know what causes the different shapes on Earth. *Why mountain ranges rise up where they do and what causes rivers to flow in certain directions. ** They take detailed measurements. They study the heights of mountains and the temperatures of places. To track any changes that occur over time, physical geographers keep careful records of all the information they collect.

4. Uses of Physical Geography ** studying changes that take place on our planet can help us prepare to live with those changes. Example: knowing what causes volcanoes to erupt can help us predict eruptions. * What causes terrible storms can help us prepare for them. *** the work of physical geographers helps us adjust to the dangers and changes of our world.

5. Human Geography - the study of the worlds people, communities, and landscapes. (Past and Present). They also study what people do, what jobs do they have and what crops they grow. What makes them move from place to place.

6. Uses of Human Geography ** often specializes in a smaller area of study. Some may choose to study only the people and landscapes in a certain region. ** they study how people in various places address their needs. They look at the foods people eat and the types of governments they form. ** can help people design their cities and towns. They can help city planners place roads, shopping malls and schools.

7. Other fields of geography Cartography – The science of making maps. Hydrology – The study of water on Earth. Meteorology – The study of weather and what causes it.

8. Review: 1. What are some major branches of geography? 2. What do human geographers study? 3. What are some features in your area that a physical geographer might study?