Abstract

There are many factors affecting the teaching of geographic concepts, for which it can be said that environmental factors are not emphasized. In this research, the role of natural surroundings in the teaching of geographic concepts is illustrated with the examples of "waterfall" and "river". The sample consisted of 80 students (43 boys and 37 girls) whose aged 12 - 13. In this reasearch, the children's level of knowledge was estimated by using a questionnaire, through interviews and by drawing pictures. It was found that the environment has an effective role in the teaching of geographic concepts. According to the date obtained, it was obvious that the level of knowledge of the children living near a waterfall was higher than the level of knowledge of the children living far from the waterfall. In addition, the level of knowledge of the concept of a “river,” which was common to both areas, did not differ very much.

Key words: Geography, geographic concept, naturel environment, waterfall, river.