Using Picture Books to Arouse Interest in the Study of Geographic Areas

Abstract

The author describes methods for using picture books to teach geography in middle school. Introducing students to geographic regions through narrative and visual text can provide background information about the area, stimulate student interest in the culture, and facilitate student comprehension of geographic concepts. The author provides strategies for incorporating picture books as learning tools in the intermediate and middle school geography curriculum. Specific examples of recommended picture books for target cultures are included along with suggestions of excellent picture books appropriate for other geographic regions.

Keywords:

• geography
• middle school
• picture books
• social studies