The Importance of Geography for Middle Schoolers

Geography is more than just memorizing countries, capitals, and landscapes; it’s a way of understanding the world that helps us connect deeply to the people, cultures, and histories that make each place unique. For middle schoolers, geography can open up an exciting door to explore the world in a way that is tangible and meaningful. Imagine being able to see, touch, smell, taste, and hear the very places you're learning about—this is the kind of immersive experience that geography offers, especially when paired with a deeper connection to history and culture.

But there is an even more profound reason for middle schoolers to dive into geography. When we learn about the world and its people, we should recognize the providence and sovereignty of God in creating the world as He did. God created each country, culture, and person with purpose and intention, and as we study geography, we are given a beautiful opportunity to see His handiwork in all its diversity. Let’s explore why learning geography is essential, how it connects us to God’s purpose, and why it should be an experience filled with awe and joy.

Geography Makes the World Real and Relevant

One of the most powerful aspects of geography is that it makes the world feel real. When students can picture places in their minds, not just as dots on a map, but as vibrant cultures, landscapes, and people, they begin to understand the world in a way that’s both personal and relevant. Instead of simply memorizing facts, they start to imagine themselves walking through the streets of Paris, hearing the busy hustle of a New York City subway, or tasting a spicy taco in Mexico City.

Young learners are naturally curious and love to explore new places. Geography makes this possible by bringing the world into the classroom in ways that are engaging and accessible. In fact, when geography is tied to history and culture, it becomes even more vivid and captivating. Students can explore how certain regions became centers of trade, how people overcame challenges, or how different cultures developed unique traditions. The more students connect what they are learning to real-world experiences, the more they will begin to appreciate the beauty of God’s world in all its complexity.

History and Culture: Why They Go Hand-in-Hand with Geography

History and culture are inseparable from geography because they are the very reasons people live where they do and why certain places matter. By studying geography, middle schoolers can better understand how the land itself shaped civilizations—how mountains, rivers, and climate influenced the way people built their homes, grew their food, and created their societies. For example, the vast Nile River was central to the development of ancient Egypt, the harsh deserts of the Middle East played a crucial role in shaping the cultures of that region.

When students study the history of a place, they begin to understand not only what happened there but why it happened. They learn about how the environment influenced everything from the economy to the arts to religion. And when we connect geography with culture, we open up a world of opportunity for students to explore music, food, fashion, language, and more. They can learn about how people around the world celebrate holidays, express their faith, and practice hospitality, and they will begin to appreciate the richness of human diversity.

The Sovereignty and Providence of God in Creation

When we think about the vastness of the world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by how big and complex everything seems. But for those of us who believe in the providence and sovereignty of God, we can take comfort in knowing that the world is not random or chaotic. God created this world and its people with purpose. Every mountain, river, desert, and forest has a role to play in the grand design of creation.

The Bible tells us that God "formed the earth and made it," (Isaiah 45:18) and He "determines the times set for them and the exact places where they should live" (Acts 17:26). This truth helps us see geography not just as a collection of facts to be learned, but as a celebration of God’s creative genius. Each nation, culture, and people group is part of His plan, and by studying geography, we gain a deeper understanding of His work and His sovereignty over all things.

When we study the world with an awareness of God’s design, we begin to approach it with awe. The diverse landscapes—from the frozen tundra of the Arctic to the lush rainforests of the Amazon—testify to the greatness of our Creator. The beauty of God's handiwork is not just in the physical world, but in the cultures and histories that shape human life. We can marvel at how God has worked through different people in different times and places to accomplish His purposes.

Learning Geography with Joy and Awe

Geography should not be a dull or boring subject. It is a celebration of the richness and diversity of God's creation. When students see geography as a window into the beauty of God's world, they can approach it with a heart of joy and wonder. Every map they study, every country they learn about, and every culture they explore can be a chance to marvel at the intricacy and purpose woven into the fabric of creation.

As they learn about different places and people, students are invited to reflect on how the world connects as a whole. They can think about how God's global mission is unfolding in the far corners of the earth, and they can develop a heart for the nations. The study of geography isn’t just about knowing where a place is on a map—it's about developing a deeper love and respect for God's creation and for the people He has made to fill it.

Conclusion: Geography as a Journey of Discovery

For middle schoolers, geography is much more than a subject to be learned—it’s a journey of discovery. It’s a way of exploring the world, connecting with different cultures, and seeing the hand of God in every part of creation. By studying geography, students not only gain important knowledge, but they also develop a greater sense of awe and gratitude for the world we live in and the people who call it home. As they learn with joy, they’ll be inspired to live in a way that honors God’s design for His world and His people.

The world is waiting to be explored, the beauty of God’s creation is there to be discovered, one place at a time, and I am honored to share this world with our students.

--Kassie Eleweanya teaches Geography at Schola.