GEOG 10 - Geography of California

Transfer Status

CSU/UC

Unit(s)

3.00

• Lecture: 51.00 Contact hours/102.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)
• Total: 51.00 Contact hours/102.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)

Course Description: A thematic approach to the state's issues, processes and topics relevant to geography including climate, landforms, natural vegetation, water resources, cultural landscape, ethnic diversity, urban and agricultural regions, and the economy. This course explores the physical, and human landscapes that have evolved as a result of the human-environment interface. (C-ID GEOG 140).

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Examine the physical processes which shape the natural environments of California.
2. Analyze the use of natural resources in the state, particularly the role of water in the development of both the economic and cultural landscapes of California.
3. Analyze the influence of varying cultural and ethnic groups in the shaping of the cultural landscapes of California.
4. Evaluate the origins and development of agriculture and industry in California.
5. Compare patterns of urban development in the state and evaluate current and future trends.

Topic Titles / Suggested Time Topic

Lecture

1. Class Activities
2. Collaborative Group Work
3. Discussion
4. Homework: Students are required to complete two hours of outside-of-class homework for each hour of lecture
5. Lecture
6. Multimedia Presentations

1. Exams/Tests
2. Quizzes
3. Oral Presentation
4. Projects
5. Homework
6. A 2,500 word written requirement will be integrated into the course through both homework assignments and essay exams.

Reading Assignments

1. Read the chapter in your text that describes the history of California State Parks. Be able to discuss how the criteria for Park formation was developed and laid out.
2. Read the article on the use of “Green Zones” to differentiate between rural farm areas and areas set aside for residential expansion. Be prepared to discuss the issues from both perspectives (i.e. from the farmer’s view and semi-urban developer’s view).

Writing Assignments

1. Write a short essay (2-3 pages) describing what happened to the large Rancherias in Northern Central California after the Bear Flag revolt of 1846. Note in your paper how the aftermath of the revolt changed the demographics of Northern Central California.
2. Write a paper (3-5 pages) summarizing the “Gorge Project”(early 1950s) of the Owen’s Valley. Note the impact this project had on creating tensions within California. In other words, how this project set up the “Water Wars.” Note in your paper how this conflict persists today.

Out-of-Class Assignments

1. Take part in our field trip to the Sutter Buttes. Take notes on what our guide tells us about the formation of the Buttes and how this unique formation shaped local plant and animal conservation. Be prepared to discuss your experience in class.
2. Attend our annual field trip to Table Mountain. Take notes on water drainage, plant life, zonation, and other important ecological features (e.g. rock and soil types) as mentioned in our brief tour. Be prepared to discuss your experience in class.

California Geographic Alliance. (2023). Atlas of California. California Geographic Alliance. https://calgeography.sdsu.edu/resources/atlas-pages/.

Selby, W. A. (2018). Rediscovering the Golden State: California Geography. John Wiley & Sons, 4th. 978-1-119-57223-7.

Other Learning Materials

California Highway Map

Lapp, Rudolph: Afro-Americans in California (Article)

Camerillo, Albert: Chicanos in California (Article)

California Wine Advisory Board; The Story of Wine; (pamphlet)

Chan, Sucheng: Asian Californians (Article)

Maps, charts, and graphs distributed by instructor of record

Geography (Masters Required)