1. Introduction

Purpose, format and expectations; requirements and grading.
Fundamental themes, geographical methodologies, regional analysis, maps.

2. Map Reading and Interpretation

3. Physical Characteristics of NYS

Paleogeography, physiographic regions, seismicity, glaciation
Mineral deposits, land reclamation
Climate controls, climate regions, climate change, air quality
Soil
Water Resources: surface, groundwater, coastal zone, water quality

4. MIDTERM EXAM

5. Historical Geography of NYS

Native Americans in pre-European times
European “discovery,” exploration and settlement of NYS
NYS and the American Revolution
Post-revolutionary period: settlement pattern, the canal era; railroads, industrialization and urbanization
Post-World War II period to the Present

6. Population Geography of NYS

Trends; the aging of NYS; health issues

7. Rural NYS

Conservation issues: biozones, open space; land classification; wildlife
Forestry
Agriculture

8. Urban NYS

Urban-economic landscape, industrial location and manufacturing
Geographic city, economic base and variables; trends
Original site location of the major cities
Nassau and Suffolk counties
New York City

9. FINAL EXAM