Assignment #1 – Regional Climate Essay
Geography 205
David Snyder
Choose a country, state or region (a location of the approximate size of an average U.S. state). Write an essay of at least three pages (double spaced, 12 point font, no excessive margins) which answers the following questions about your region:
1) Describe the location of this region on the planet; include it’s latitude and longitude, nearby oceans and mountains and any other relevant geographical features.
2) Describe some of the interesting local geographical features of the region.
3) In general, describe the climate of the region. What seasonal weather patterns occur? Do any unique weather phenomenon occur?
4) How and why do the phenomenon mentioned in questions #1 & #2 (mountains, oceans, latitude, etc.) affect the climate of the region? Think about processes of heating and cooling, direction of windflow, amount of insolation, atmospheric moisture, different types of precipitation, etc. Consider the causes of these processes in your region and what the effects of these processes are in your region. In short, how do global climate and weather patterns affect the local climate and what are the local phenomena that affect these global patterns to create a unique climate in your location.
You will be expected to answer these questions thoroughly, with proper grammar and spelling and in essay form (introduction, body, conclusion). I will be looking for your ability to understand and analyze the material we have covered in class and your ability to apply the course material to the world around you. “Why?” is my favorite question, so expect to use “because” frequently in your answers. Make connections and be insightful. Feel free to mention your own personal experiences and observations. You are encouraged to use pictures, diagrams and maps (although these won’t make up for a lack of written content). Please note all sources used with a routine bibliographic style. Also note that I did not ask for information such as detailed geologic information, cultural descriptions or economic productivity statistics.
You will have to do some research for this essay, so consider the following sources: Libraries; both UAA and Loussac. Books are an obvious source, consider those about your region specifically, as well as texts concerning weather in general. Your own textbook should provide many answers regarding the global patterns that affect your region. Don’t forget that periodicals often contain excellent, up-to-date information. The internet, especially sites of government agencies, universities and scientific institutions, contains volumes of information as well. I have found www.brittanica.com to be particularly useful for general information about places.
This assignment will be due in class on Tuesday, July
10. 10 percentage points will be taken off for every class
period that it is turned in late.