Urban Models for AP Human Geography

Introduction

• Channel: Mr. Sin Channel
• Focus: Review of seven urban models essential for AP Human Geography.
• Background Knowledge: Understanding of the bid rent theory is crucial.

Bid Rent Theory Overview

• Concept: Land cost decreases as distance from Central Business District (CBD) increases.
• Implications:
  • High-density, vertical expansion near CBD.
  • Horizontal expansion and more green spaces further from CBD.
  • Skyscrapers near CBD due to high land prices.
  • Manufacturing located near but outside CBD for cheaper land.
  • Residential areas farther from CBD utilize cheaper land.

Urban Models

1. Burgess Concentric Model

• Origin: Based on 1920s Chicago.
• Structure:
  • CBD at center.
  • Transition zone with lower-income residents and industries.
  • Working-class homes around transition zone.
  • Better residential zones with newer homes.
  • Commuter zone outside city limits.
• Current Relevance: Becoming outdated due to globalization, urban renewal, etc.

2. Hoyt Sector Model

• Focus: Transportation
• Structure:
  • Develops in sectors or wedges around transportation routes (highways, railroads).
• Current Relevance: Less relevant due to changes in transportation systems.

3. Harris and Ullman Multiple Nuclei Model

• Created: Around 1945.
• Structure: Multiple CBDs with specific nodes for activities/services.
• Implications: Specific jobs and lifestyles cluster around different nodes.

4. Galactic (Peripheral) Model

• Era: 1960s, post-industrial city.
• Focus: Service-based economy
• Structure: Includes edge cities on outskirts.
• Example: City of Atlanta resembles this model.

5. Latin American City Model

• Influence: European colonization
• Structure:
  • Central Plaza with government and religious buildings.
  • CBD with a spine of wealthier residents and commercial activity.
  • Zone of Maturity with older homes.
  • Peripheral areas with middle and low-income houses.
  • Disamenity Zones with extreme poverty and informal settlements.

6. Sub-Saharan African City Model

• Influence: European colonization
• Structure:
  • Three CBDs: Colonial, Traditional, and Informal.
  • Ethnic neighborhoods and squatter areas outside CBD.

7. Southeast Asian City Model

• Structure:
  • Lacks traditional CBD, centered around a port.
  • Influences from colonial powers and rapid urbanization.
  • Alien Commercial Zone for trade and investment.
  • Mixed residential areas with newer suburban areas.

Conclusion

• Practice: Answer questions related to these models.
• Resources: Consider subscribing for more educational content and using the review packet for AP Human Geography.
• Contact: Mr. Sin available for further online learning sessions.