Providing a one-year survey of geography and ecology, this course is a bit different than other Beautiful Feet Literature-based courses. Moving at a quicker pace than their other literature courses, Geography and Ecology incorporates science activities and mapping activities, with literature important in a secondary role to the science and geography activities. The chosen literature has been carefully selected to provide the human aspect, introducing young people to real people and places at specific times in history.
Colorfully illustrated, the Guide begins with a course introduction that includes a QR Code to introductory videos, tips for success, and a downloadable resource packet, the author proceeds to share thoughts on how to discuss evolution and climate change with our learners, as believers. She includes helpful links to websites on young earth and old earth creationism, and intelligent design. A website dedicated to understanding climate change and the the role of humanity is also included.
The course is divided into 98 lessons, with a suggested path of 2-3 lessons per week, for a one-year study. While it is recommended to complete the course in one year, the course is flexible and may be extended to fit your family’s needs. Most lessons include labeling and coloring countries on a world map, memorization, and online interactive quizzes. Lessons are broken down by subject with color coded icons for Geography, Ecology, Story (Literature), and Activities (Science and Geography). Marginal icons identify if internet links, research topics, or parental review of materials are vital to the lessons. Along with the lesson content, each part concludes with suggestions for “rabbit trails” to enhance the topics. A smattering of questions is found throughout the Guide, with the answer key and a glossary located in the back of the Guide.
The lessons are divided into eight parts (chapters). Part One covers the fundamentals of Ecology, while the other seven parts are divided by continent: Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Australia & Oceania, and Antarctica. Lessons begin with a list of required resources and supplies. Assignments include readings, hands-on activities, and web links to online videos, interactive reviews, and readings. Activities vary and include hands-on science activities to help students understand the cycles of nature, ecosystem structure, soil health, effects of pollution, etc., mapping activities to aid memorization, vocabulary exercises, cultural recipes, and more. Many lessons also include supplemental activities. Referenced above, the downloadable Resource Packet includes diagrams and other printables to enrich the studies. It also includes “clickable” weblinks to sites referenced in the Guide.
Additional resources are required including literature titles, the World Map published by Beautiful Feet, a 3-Ring Binder, household or commonly found items and art supplies. Optional, but highly recommended, is the Book of Nations.
As a former user of Beautiful Feet’s literature-based history and geography guides, I am impressed with the expanded scope this course offers, especially with the integration of hands-on science activities. Teaching our young people to appreciate the structure and systems of our world is a noble task. Guiding them to navigate the complexity of beliefs surrounding evolution and climate change in today’s culture is paramount. This course explores these topics and encourages parents to share their family’s beliefs and values in these areas. While brief religious commentary is included in the parental information, there are no Scripture references in the student lessons. ~Deanne