GOG - Geography of Georgia Module Overview

Geography of Georgia

Introduction

Welcome to Georgia Sign Georgia has a vast and unique history. Georgia, the last of the original 13 colonies, received its name in honor of King George III, the very king a young nation fought against to gain its independence. To understand Georgia’s history, one must take the time to appreciate the features that set it apart from other states. The geography of Georgia consists of a mix of five distinct regions: Appalachian Plateau, Ridge and Valley, Piedmont, Blue Ridge Mountain and Coastal Plain. This wide range of regions allows Georgia to be blessed with a variety of physical features such as the historic fall line, Okefenokee Swamp, Appalachian Mountains and barrier islands. Our key geographic features and climate have a large impact on the state’s economic prosperity and development. Our land features and attractive climate attract tourists every day to enjoy our mountains for hiking or our beaches for relaxing. Beyond tourism, our natural land features of the Savannah River continue to boost economic businesses by being one of the largest shipping ports on the East Coast. Our key ocean ports work strategically with the interstate highway system and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to contribute to the global marketplace. As we explore the topic of geography further, you will see that we have an economic advantage thanks to our unique geography and climate.

 

Module Lessons Preview

In this module, we will study the following topics:

Georgia's Location and Region: Learn more about the distinct features that set Georgia apart. This microlesson will introduce you to the 5 regions of Georgia.

Unique Climate and Physical Features: Did you know that when England was first colonizing Georgia they expected it to be able to produce wine, silk, tea, olives, oranges, cotton, and indigo? Find out why, and why those expectations couldn't be met when you learn more about the weather patterns (climate) and natural resources in Georgia. 

Major Transportation Systems: Did you know that 200 trains pass through Georgia on a daily basis? That Hartsfield-Jackson airport is one of the busiest airports in the world? Or that the ports in Savannah provide goods to 70% of our entire nation? This microlesson will explore how Georgia's unique ties to air, land, and sea allowed it to become a major transportation hub.

Markets and Transportation: Once you've learned a bit more about transportation in Georgia, this microlesson will have you take that information and see how it leads to creating jobs throughout the state. 

 

Key Terms

  • Hemisphere - a half of the earth, usually as divided into northern and southern halves by the equator, or into western and eastern halves by an imaginary line passing through the poles.
  • Latitude - describes the location of a point in a North and South direction relative to the equator.
  • Longitude -describes the location of a point in an East and West direction relative to the Prime Meridian.
  • Appalachian Plateau - Our smallest region in the State of Georgia. It is located in our northwestern corner.
  • Valley and Ridge - This region consists of several mountain ridges and valleys. Mining and farming flourish in this region.
  • Blue Ridge Mountains - This region is home to the Appalachian Mountains and the highest point in Georgia. The first Gold Rush of the United States took place here in 1828.
  • Piedmont - The most populated region of the state, thanks to the city Atlanta. It was once home to cotton plantations, but today is home to peach farming and manufacturing.
  • Coastal Plain - This region begins on the fall line. It extends to Georgia’s southern borders and Atlantic Ocean. Peanuts and cotton are the main product produced in this region.
  • Fall Line - a geographic border between two regions, where rivers produce waterfalls.
  • Okefenokee Swamp - The second largest freshwater swamp in the United States. This National Wildlife Refuge is home to over 1,000 types of plants and animals.
  • Appalachian Mountains - The southern end of the Appalachian Mountains are located in Georgia.
  • Chattahoochee River - Major transportation waterway has carried cotton, textiles, freight throughout Georgia’s history. It also provides hydroelectric power and drinking water.
  • Savannah River - This large ocean port transports goods in and out of Georgia.

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