30 Required Models & Theories for AP Human Geography (copy)

Latitude

Based on the equator, indicating horizontal lines on a map.

Longitude

Based on the prime meridian, indicating vertical lines on a map.

GIS

Geographic Information System used to layer different maps to show patterns in data.

Ravenstein's Laws of Migration

Common patterns that migrants share, including that most migrate short distances and economic factors are the main cause.

Zelinsky Model of Migration Transition

Describes the type of migration most likely to happen based on a country’s demographic stage.

S-Curve

A model showing the speed at which ideas are adopted, starting slowly, picking up, and then cooling off.

Organic Theory

The idea that countries are like living organisms needing to expand to survive.

Mackinder's Heartland Theory

The concept that global power can be achieved by conquering Eastern Europe and Russia.

Spykman's Rimland Theory

The theory that global power would be gained by conquering the UK, India, and China.

Domino Theory

The belief that if one country fell to Communism, neighboring countries would fall like dominoes.

Von Thunen Model

A model showing where industries are located in relation to agriculture around a city.

Ester Boserup's Theory

The idea that food production will increase as population increases.

Rostow's Stages of Economic Growth

Describes five stages of industrial development in countries.

Weber's Least Cost Theory

The principle that industries will locate where transportation costs are minimized based on raw materials and product transportation.

Christaller's Central Place Theory

A model explaining the sizes and distribution of cities based on consumer behavior and travel distance.

Burgess Concentric Zone Model

Describes the layout of a city as concentric rings with socioeconomic status increasing outward.

Gravity Model

A theory suggesting that larger cities attract more people compared to smaller cities.

Hoyt Sector Model

A city layout suggesting socioeconomic groups are arranged in sectors radiating from the city center.

Harris-Ullman Multiple Nuclei Model

A city layout featuring multiple centers of business rather than a single central district.

Borchert's Evolution of the American Urban System

Describes the historical development of cities in America based on transportation changes.

Zipf's Rank-Size Rule

A principle stating that the nth largest city is 1/n the size of the largest city.

Bid-Rent Curve

A model showing that land prices decrease as the distance from the central city increases.