World Issues: A Geographic Analysis

CGW4U encourages students to explore contemporary global challenges through a geographic lens

• From population growth and inequality to environmental degradation
• Geopolitical conflict
• Students investigate pressing world issues
• Evaluate responses to them.

The course fosters global citizenship and critical thinking by integrating inquiry-based learning, data analysis, and geographic frameworks

Unit 1: World Issues and Perspectives
This unit introduces students to geographic thinking and the different worldviews shaping global issues.
Lessons include:

• Introduction to World Issues and Geography
• In the News
• Inquiry Models and Critical Thinking
• World Views and Lenses
• Mapping Bias
• Media Literacy and Critical Thinking

Unit 2: Population, Inequality & Development
Students explore demographic trends and development issues around the world.
Lessons include:

• Introduction to Demography
• Demographic Statistics
• Population Theories
• Population Growth
• Poverty and Global Disparities
• Development Models
• Child Labour and Inequality

Unit 3: Geopolitics, Conflict, and Cooperation
This unit examines how geography influences global conflict and cooperation.
Lessons include:

• Introduction to Geopolitics
• Geopolitical Regions and Theories
• Conflict and War
• International Alliances
• Political Ideologies
• Terrorism and Security

Unit 4: Sustainability and the Global Future
Students analyze global environmental challenges and explore sustainable solutions.
Lessons include:

• Globalization
• Sustainability Principles
• The Green Revolution
• Urbanization and Resource Use
• Climate Change and Global Action

Unit 5: Final Evaluation
Students consolidate their learning through a final research project and exam.
Lessons include:

• Final Exam
• Culminating Assignment

• 70% of the final grade is based on coursework, including:
  • Case studies and issue-based inquiries
  • Geographic analysis reports and development models
  • Unit assignments and debates
  • Map interpretation and critical reflections
• 30% of the final grade is based on final evaluations:
  • 10% Culminating global issue project
  • 20% Final exam based on issue analysis and geography skills

All assessments follow Ontario curriculum standards and are designed to build geographic literacy, inquiry-based thinking, and a deeper understanding of global interdependence