URBAN HOME	READINGS	SYLLABUS	FIELD WORK	GEOGRAPHY DEPARTMENT HOME

Course Description:

This class is part of a two semester series designed to cover urban geography of North America (this class) and World Urbanization (offered Spring 2001). This course is divided into several parts. The first is the evolution of the North American metro system approached from a historical geographical view. In this section we will closely examine the Twin Cities as a case study of the process. The second part takes up the topic of center-hinterland relationships. In the third section we examine the internal spatial structure of cities. In the fourth and fifth sections we delve into the essence of planning and managing the modern urban landscape.

This year I would like to include a few differing viewpoints and so you will see a handful of videos about the Twin Cities. In addition I would like to include poetry in our consideration. Therefore those of you willing to recite a poem about city life will get extra credit!

A significant portion of your time will be devoted to a field assignment that is designed to make you skilled field observers and get you to explore the urban areas around Macalester.

Several readings (listed below) are on reserve in the library. Be sure to allow yourself enough time to read the assignments. I ask you to read broadly for this class so you can develop an appreciation for the wealth of insights and applications of urban geography. My goal is for you all to master the deep underlying structure of urban geography, but not to recall the fascinating details of the material you will read. This does not mean you should take the readings lightly. Take general notes on the readings and know; the author's purpose for writing, the main arguments and supporting evidence and record your reactions. You will develop a detailed knowledge of places and events as the course develops. Geography is very much a show me discipline. If it can't be mapped or seen in the landscape we are very "skeptical." Additional readings will be assigned from time to time. We focus on the development of the Twin Cities for several reasons. The most important reason is the obvious one ? we are here!
Class participation is expected. Tests will cover both readings and lectures and will consist of several questions of the "short essay answer variety." Make?up tests are possible, but only for excused absences.

Grades based on the following: Three exams - 60% Field project - 40%