How to Study for a College Level Geography 101 Exam

For countless college students around the world, a certain number of required natural science courses is a normal part of the college education experience. No matter your major or area of study, you will likely be required to take at least one science course. Although some students will choose Biology and Chemistry, Atmospheric or Landscape Geography has become the course of choice for students seeking easier course and lecture material. However, you should not expect to be able to breeze through this course without studying or preparing for exams. Here are a few tips gleaned from personal experience to help you study for a Landscape Geography exam:

1. Make Flashcards/Note Cards of Important Terminology

While this first tip may seem like a no-brainer, many students fail to realize that study cards are one of the best ways to learn and remember difficult material, particularly terminology. On one side of the card, write the term and on the other side, write the definition. Have a parent, friend or fellow student quiz you on your definitions by calling out the term and asking you to define it. Then, shuffle the cards and do the opposite. Have your study mate call out the definition and ask you to give him/her the term. This form of repetition will help to ingrain the material in your mind and, hopefully, give you a better chance at recalling it during the exam.

2. Try to Make Geography Fun

a. Enjoy your Lab Time

The majority of college science lecture courses require an accompanying one credit lab. This one-day-a-week course is designed to reinforce concepts learned in the lecture course through practical applications, including map labeling, rock and soil studies, etc. And while this may seem like an unnecessary load of work, you should strive to enjoy your lab time. After all, handling rock and soil samples is more interactive and hands-on than sitting in a lecture course taking notes.

b. Watch a Discovery Channel® Special on Geography or Planet Earth

If you need a break from intense terminology and concept studies, why not rent a Discovery Channel® geography special from your local movie rental store, local library or campus library? These documentaries may serve to spark your interest in the subject of geography through stunning visuals, photography and interesting scientific studies. While watching the program, listen out for terminology from your study material. Ask yourself these questions:

• How did the scientist use that term?

• Do I understand what the term means and what it applies to?

• Did the program mention a term I am unfamiliar with? Does my textbook define that term?

3. Form a Study Group with Fellow Students

This may perhaps be one of the most beneficial study tips of all. Many students learn material more efficiently when studying in a group setting. If your local or campus library has soundproof study rooms, try checking one out in advance. Schedule your study sessions here to avoid being disturbed by outside distractions.

Have your fellow students quiz you on lecture material and important key concepts. It will help if you bring your study note cards/flashcards to the meeting. This way, your classmate(s) can quiz you on your personal material. You may need to place a heavier study emphasis on certain terms than another student might. Be certain you cover entire chapters of material. Don't run the risk of skipping concepts from the textbooks and/or your personal lecture notes.

4. Use Google Earth and/or Google Maps to Learn about Foreign Landscapes and Terrains

This is yet another fun, hands-on and interactive way to learn about geography. Utilize Google Earth® to pull up specific areas, landscapes and/or countries you have been studying in class. Google Earth® will allow you to view these locations in real time via satellite photos. Take notes on their terrain distinctions, any given temperature or climate information, soil information, plant life, etc. This program is great for interactive learning.

You can additionally utilize Google Maps® to learn more simple and generic information, including U.S. state names, the names of major and minor bodies of water and the names of foreign countries around the world. While it may not be as interactive and 3-dimensional as Google Earth®, remember that you will be labeling maps both on your exams and during your lab time.

So this semester, don't let your Geography course become an academic discouragement. Although it may be frustrating to endure a science course, particularly if you are a non-science major, remember that you can make learning and studying fun, social and interactive by utilizing the aforementioned tips and suggestions.

**Note: the following tips, advice and suggestions come from the writer's personal experience in taking a Geography 101 course at the college level.