Maintains that region familiarity is an important prerequisite in the instructional use of cartograms. Cartograms are value-by-area maps that increase or decrease areas in order to illustrate various data (e.g. book reading in the western United States). Discusses necessary cognitive processes for the visualization of data. (MJP)

Provides a concise and interesting overview of the state of higher education in Cuba, specifically focusing on geography. The interests, methodologies, and programs of Cuban geographers are similar to other countries, albeit at a truncated level due to the United States embargo. Discusses international educational exchange efforts. (MJP)

Maintains that the study of local wetlands provides an excellent means of integrating environmental studies, global studies, and other curricula into geography instruction. Seven tables list ways that studying wetlands illustrate the six essential elements of the National Geography Standards. Includes a list of 17 learning activities. (MJP)

Examines the theme of movement in human geography as it is expressed by the phenomenon of temporary buildings. Discusses the anthropological and sociological clues derived from their composition and structural appearances. Includes a simple inquiry model that can be used for structures as diverse as an aluminum espresso bar or a tepee. (MJP)

Describes a writing assignment designed to educate students about an ethnic group different than their own. Students first wrote a factual account of how their family arrived at the local region. They then wrote an account from the perspective of a fictional student from a different ethnic group. (MJP)

Traces the often chaotic restructuring of European national boundaries from before World War I to after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Offers a concise and interesting overview of the political, economic, and military events that shaped modern Europe. Includes seven detailed maps showing shifting boundaries and alliances. (MJP)

Examines the strengths and weaknesses of an 1828 geography textbook for children, specifically in relation to other textbooks. Jesse Olney's text deviated from the norm by introducing the students to activities focused on community and local geography. Ethnocentrism and racism occasionally marred the lavishly illustrated text. (MJP)