This is a introductory unit for ninth grade world geography. I want students to use the current events about the August 18 earthquake in Turkey to learn some basic information about Turkey and to understand how the five themes of geography relate to Turkey, the earthquake, its results and its aftermath.

Basic operations and concepts Identify capabilities and limitations of contemporary and emerging technology resources and assess the potential of these systems and services to address personal, lifelong learning, and workplace needs. Social, ethical and human issues informed choices among technology systems, resources, and services Analyze advantages and disadvantages of widespread use and reliance on technology in the workplace and in society as a whole. Demonstrate and advocate for legal and ethical behaviors among peers, family and community regarding the use of technology and information. Technology productivity tools Use technology tools and resources for managing and communicating personal/professional information (e.g., finances, schedules, addresses, purchases, correspondence). Investigate and apply expert systems, intelligent agents, and simulations in real-world situations. Technology communication tools Use technology tools and resources for managing and communicating personal/professional information (e.g., finances, schedules, addresses, purchases, correspondence). Routinely and efficiently use online information resources to meet needs for collaboration, research, publications, communications, and productivity. Select and apply technology tools for research, information analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making in content learning. Collaborate with peers, experts, and others to contribute to a content related knowledge base by using technology to compile, synthesize, produce, and disseminate information, models, and other creative works.

Standard 1 Accesses information efficiently and effectively, as described by the following indicators: recognizes the need for information: recognizes that accurate and comprehensive information is the basis for intelligent decision making; formulates questions based on information needs; identifies a variety of potential sources of information; develops and uses successful strategies for locating information. Standard 2: Evaluates information critically and competently, as described by the following indicators: determines accuracy, relevance, and comprehensiveness; distinguishes among facts, point of view, and opinion; identifies inaccurate and misleading information; selects information appropriate to the problem or question at hand. Standard 3: Uses information effectively and creatively, as described by the following indicators: organizes information for practical application; integrates new information into one's own knowledge; applies information in critical thinking and problem solving; produces and communication information and ideas in appropriate formats

These kids live in the world--they've got to know what's going on and where stuff is happening.

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