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Geographic Perspective Process Guide Feature:______________________________ Instructions: The following is a step-by-step guide to using a geographic perspective in exploring a regional feature. Answer the questions in each step on a separate sheet of paper before preparing your presentation for the rest of the class. 1. Name of feature This could include official names, nicknames, or information on the origin of the name. For example: New York City is also known as the Big Apple. 2. Location of feature Where is this feature located on the earth? This could include its latitude and longitude (absolute location) or the city and state in which it is located (relative location). Tell about the significance of the location. For example: The location of the Statue of Liberty is significant because it is in a harbor where thousands of immigrants arrived from other countries. Remember, a feature can be located in more than one area. 3. Place of feature What are the physical and human characteristics of this feature? Why are they important? For example: Southern California is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and a leisurely lifestyle. 4. Scale What is the size of this feature relative to similar features? Does the size of this feature make it easy or difficult to make generalizations about it? For example: Topeka, Kansas is much smaller than Los Angeles, but you could say that all cities have paved roads and streetlights. 5. Distribution of feature How is this feature distributed in space? Is this distribution significant? What impact does its distribution have on the region? Why is it distributed the way it is? What changes have occurred in its distribution over time? For example: Northeastern cities have much greater populations of Italian and Irish Americans because New York City was their ancestors’ original port of entry. 6. Pattern of feature Does this feature have a particular pattern? Why is it patterned this way? What impact does its pattern have on the rest of the region? Has the pattern changed over time? How? For example: The earth’s physical systems create climate patterns, and human population and activity create traffic patterns. 7. Processes of feature Why is this feature located where it is? Was it built by people, or did natural forces create it? Has it always been there? Will it be there in the future? What might cause it to change? What forces created the feature? What forces might cause it to change over time? How old is the feature? For example: Earthquakes are the result of shifts in the tectonic plates. 8. Relationship of feature How is this feature connected to the local and global community physically, culturally, politically, symbolically, and personally? How do people perceive the feature? For example: The Statue of Liberty is a meaningful symbol that evokes patriotic feelings for many Americans. Regional cuisine is enjoyed by many Americans regardless of where they live.

Educators: This handout accompanies the lesson "Regions of the United States: A Geographic Perspective” at You may reproduce this handout for students. © 2006 National Geographic Society. All rights reserved.

Geographic Perspectives