2nd Grade Geography Unitgeography

The study of places and the relationships between people and their environment.

globe

Are models of the Earth. They are spheres (round like a ball) and show the true shape of the earth. They show mostly oceans and land.

equator

An imaginary line of latitude around the middle of the Earth that divides the Earth into northern and southern hemispheres.

prime meridian

An imaginary line of longitude that divides the Earth into eastern and western hemispheres.

maps

Are flat and can show different types of places. They are stretched out pictures

of the earth or are drawings of the earth.

map title

The name of or a kind of map. (Usually found at the top of the map)

map key or map legend

A list of shapes and symbols used on a map and an explanation of what each stands for.

compass rose

A symbol that shows direction on a map The cardinal directions are north, south, east, and west.

continent

A large area of land on Earth.There are seven continents of the world: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and Antarctica. Know where they are on the world map.

North America

South America

Europe

Asia

Africa

Australia

Antarctica

ocean A large body of salt water.

There are five major oceans of the world: Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, Arctic Ocean, and Southern Ocean. Know where they are on the world map.

landform: lake

An area of water surrounded by land. Lakes are usually fresh water.

There are 5 Great Lakes located in the northern part of the United States.

river

Usually freshwater flowing in a long line across land towards an ocean, sea, lake, or another river.

The James River (in Virginia)

The Mississippi River

The Rio Grande River

mountain

A large landform that rises above the surrounding land, usually in the form of a peak.

Rocky Mountains

Appalachian Mountains