1. Locate Virginia and its bordering states on maps of the U.S. and North America.
2. Describe the relative location and physical characteristics of Virginia's five regions.
3. Explain the impact of Virginia’s bodies of water on its history, economy, and culture.

VS.1a Virginia’s Bordering States

Virginia borders five states, DC, Chesapeake Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Bordering bodies of water

• Atlantic Ocean
• Chesapeake Bay

Water features influenced where early Virginians settled and created both opportunities and barriers.

• Settlements developed near water sources.
• Waterways served as natural boundaries and routes.

VS.1b Virginia’s Five Geographic Regions

• Coastal Plain (Tidewater): Flat land, near Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay; east of the Fall Line.
• Piedmont: Rolling hills, west of the Fall Line.
• Blue Ridge Mountains: Old, rounded mountains; source of rivers.
• Valley and Ridge: Great Valley of Virginia and ridges; west of Blue Ridge Mountains.
• Appalachian Plateau: Located in Southwest Virginia; small part of it lies in the state.

VS.1c Virginia’s Rivers and Waterways

• James River: Flows into Chesapeake Bay; Richmond & Jamestown are located on it.
• York River: Flows into Chesapeake Bay; Yorktown is located along it.
• Potomac River: Flows into Chesapeake Bay; Alexandria is along this river.
• Rappahannock River: Flows into Chesapeake Bay; Fredericksburg lies on its banks.

Chesapeake Bay

• Safe harbor
• Provided food and transportation
• Separated the Eastern Shore from mainland Virginia

Atlantic Ocean

• Provided transportation links to Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean

Lake Drummond: Shallow natural lake located in the Coastal Plain region, surrounded by the Dismal Swamp.

Dismal Swamp: Located in the Coastal Plain, known for its rich wildlife.

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