Urban Geography of San Francisco
COURSE OUTLINE
I. COURSE DESCRIPTION
Transfer Status: CSU, UC 1 unit
This field course deals with the cultural and physical geography of San Francisco over a four day weekend. This class provides an introduction to the area's diversified geography including its location, physical landforms, economic diversity, urban settlement patterns and historical and cultural regions.
II. COURSE CONTENT
A. General Goals
1. To acquaint students with the geographer's approach to studying physical and cultural
landscapes, especially the principles governing their location. Students will use tools such
as maps, graphs, photos, and models.
2. To provide instructional opportunities and requirements designed to help students better
understand the relationships between human settlements and their natural environments.
3 To provide a geographic analysis and understanding of the spatial characteristics of
San Francisco’s economic diversity, physical geology and ethnicity through mapping
exercises and location surveys.
B. Course Outline
Basics of Geography
geography defined
the concepts of location
urban, regional, physical & cultural geography
An Historical Geography
Native American past
Colonization periods
American period
Physical Geography
geology
landforms
climate/fog
water issues
Cultural Landscapes
images & stereotypes
ethnic diversity & population trends
cultural/historical regions
Economic Geography
urban models
economic regions
III. GENERAL METHODS OF INSTRUCTION
Geography 11 is program of instruction and activity. Slides, maps, photographs and other geographical tools will be used for analysis and discussion. A suggested reading list and self-study exercises will be given. While in the field, interviews with local officials and inhabitants may also be used. Cultural and historical patterns will be surveyed during a field exercise and narrated driving tour. Evening cultural dinners and viewing of city lights will also enhance the student's learning. The student's learning will be evaluated through quiz and discussion, completion of exercises, tours and an assigned log.
A. Instructional Activities
1. Narrated Driving Tour of regions
2. Walking Field Exercises (city transect and financial district)
3. Cultural Dinners and city at night tours
IV. METHODS OF EVALUATION
A. Grading Policies
1. All students must complete the quiz, tours and exercises for credit in the class. All students are also encouraged to keep a log or notebook of details throughout the four day class.
2. A student may take this course with the credit/no-credit option. Completion of the field
exercises, driving and walking tours and a written quiz are required for credit. Receipts, business cards, field maps and photographs may be included as a part of the submitted materials.
3.To receive an A or B letter grade in this course, a student must write and submit a formal typed research paper of 3-8 pages in length. Concepts discussed within the paper should include
a. principles of urban theory, city planning & geography
b. an explanation of the regions of San Francisco
c. an overview of the topics discussed in the course with specific examples given
The written log and exercises are due by 5 p.m. on April 26th. Late papers may not be
accepted.
4. Evaluation of the student in the issuance of final grades is at the discretion of the instructor.
V. MATERIALS OF INSTRUCTION
A suggested reading list and information regarding maps will be given at the first class meeting.
VI. OFFICE HOURS AND CONTACT NUMBER
Instructor: Carol Jean Cox
Phone: (916) 789-2862
Office: Rm S-205
Office Hours: by appointment
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