Alaska Studies Semester Badge Book Unit 1: Cultural & Geographic Foundations High School This student-facing badge book guides learners through an in-depth exploration of Alaska’s land, climate, cultures, and regions using a place-based, inquiry-driven approach. Rather than relying on worksheets or memorization, students document their learning through observation, analysis, and community engagement. The book functions as a consumable field guide, supporting written notes, maps, diagrams, reflections, and project work. Students progress through three core phases: • Observe – Inquiry tasks and mini-projects that build foundational understanding of Alaska’s geography and cultural regions • Analyze – Performance tasks and problem-solving scenarios that require synthesis, evidence-based reasoning, and clear communication • Engage – A place-based project connecting course concepts to the student’s own community The badge book includes: • clear student directions • choice-based tasks • a portfolio-aligned assessment rubric • a community sign-off page for completion Designed for classroom, homeschool, or independent use, this book supports portfolio-based assessment and emphasizes real-world learning grounded in place. Completion of this book represents fulfillment of Unit 1: Cultural & Geographic Foundations in a semester-long Alaska Studies course.