Activity Overview
The Midwest is mostly covered by flat land with excellent soil for growing crops. In the Midwest, one can find the Central Plains, the Great Plains, the Black Hills, and the Badlands. For this activity, students will research the geography of the Midwest and create an informative poster that includes geographical features, facts, and colorful illustrations.
You can find more travel poster templates to add to this assignment to give students a variety of choices for their poster!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a poster highlighting the geographical features of the Midwest.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start assignment”.
- Using school resources, conduct research about the geography of the Midwest.
- Create a poster about Midwest geography, including facts and illustrations.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 22 Points | Needs Improvement 11 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Text | The text on the poster includes important facts, is accurate and is pertinent to the topic demonstrating a solid understanding of the subject. | The text on the poster includes some important facts, is mostly accurate and is pertinent to the topic demonstrating an emerging understanding of the subject. | The text on the poster does not include enough important facts. The information is not accurate or is not pertinent to the topic. |
| Artistic Depictions | The art chosen enhances the poster by symbolizing or illustrating important facts. Time and care is taken to ensure that the design is neat, eye-catching, and creative. | The art chosen is mostly accurate, but there may be some liberties taken that distract from the assignment. The design constructions are neat, and meet basic expectations. | The art chosen is too limited. The design appears rushed and incomplete. |
| English Conventions | Ideas are organized. There are few or no grammatical, mechanical, or spelling errors. | Ideas are mostly organized. There are some grammatical, mechanical, or spelling errors. | Storyboard text is difficult to understand. |
How to Connect Midwest Geography to Current Events
Introduction to Midwest Geography and Current Events
Begin the lesson by briefly reviewing key geographic features of the Midwest, such as states, major cities, rivers, and other prominent landmarks. Discuss the importance of geography in understanding the Midwest and its impact on current events, such as environmental issues, regional development, and economic activities. Introduce the concept of connecting geography to current events and explain that students will be exploring how geography shapes the region's present-day issues.
Research and Analysis of Current Events
Provide students with a list of recent or ongoing current events related to the Midwest. These can include topics like environmental challenges (e.g., water pollution, climate change), economic developments (e.g., agriculture, manufacturing), or social issues (e.g., population changes, urban development). In small groups or individually, have students select a current event to research further. Provide access to reputable sources, including news articles, documentaries, or government reports. Guide students in analyzing the geographical aspects of their chosen current event. What geographical factors are involved, and how do they influence the situation?
Presentation and Discussion
Have students create presentations or reports that connect their chosen current events to the geography of the Midwest. This can include maps, charts, and visual aids to illustrate key geographical elements. In a classroom setting, allow each group or student to present their findings. Encourage them to explain how geography plays a role in the current event and what the potential consequences or solutions might be. Facilitate a class discussion where students can share their insights, ask questions, and provide feedback on each other's presentations.
Reflection and Action
Conclude the lesson by guiding students in reflecting on what they've learned. Discuss the ways in which geography influences current events in the Midwest and how a deeper understanding of geography can lead to better decision-making. Encourage students to think about potential actions or solutions related to the current events they researched. How can individuals or communities address these geographical challenges? Assign a follow-up project or assignment that encourages students to explore potential actions they can take or ways to raise awareness about the geographical issues in the Midwest.
Frequently Asked Questions about Geography of the Midwest
How can I encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students through the use of storyboards and worksheets for the geography of the Midwest?
To foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, provide open-ended questions on your worksheets that require students to analyze complex geographical issues related to the Midwest, such as environmental challenges or conservation efforts. Encourage them to use evidence and data in their responses. Storyboards can be used to visually represent cause-and-effect relationships, helping students grasp the consequences of geographic challenges. Collaborative projects, where students research and present solutions on storyboards, can promote critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
What are the best ways to differentiate instruction when using storyboards and worksheets to accommodate students with various learning needs and abilities when studying the geography of the Midwest?
Differentiate instruction by offering a range of resources and allowing students to choose formats that suit their learning styles. Provide scaffolded worksheets with varying levels of complexity and detail. For storyboards, allow flexibility in content and presentation. Pair students with different abilities for collaborative projects to encourage peer support and learning. Use multimedia resources in worksheets to engage visual and auditory learners. Encourage self-assessment, and offer additional challenges or extensions for advanced learners.
How can I use storyboards and worksheets to teach students about the significance of the Great Lakes in the Midwest's geography?
Incorporate maps, images, and data on your storyboard that visually represent the Great Lakes and their importance to the Midwest. Use descriptive captions and labels to explain their significance, such as their impact on the region's climate and economy. On worksheets, include questions that prompt students to explore the historical, economic, and environmental significance of the Great Lakes. Encourage critical thinking by asking how the Great Lakes affect regional industries and biodiversity, and how they relate to the region's geographical features.
What type of storyboard layout is most effective for illustrating the geographical features of the Midwest region, including its plains, forests, and rivers?
A storyboard layout that separates each geographical feature (plains, forests, rivers) into individual sections or frames is effective. Start with a title frame for the Midwest and create separate frames for each feature. Use clear visuals, such as maps, images, and icons, for each feature. Include brief descriptions, captions, or labels to provide context. Ensure a logical flow from one frame to the next, guiding viewers through the region's diverse geography. This segmented approach helps learners focus on each feature's unique characteristics and their contributions to the overall landscape.
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