Geography in the Western Hemisphere
Unit description: The diverse geography of the Western Hemisphere has influenced human culture and settlement in distinct ways. Human communities in the Western Hemisphere have modified the physical environment. In this unit, students will identify regions in the Western Hemisphere and explore their common identifiable characteristics. In addition, students will investigate how the physical environment influences human population distribution, land use, and other forms of economic activity in these areas.
Standard
Standard: 3, Theme: GEO
Essential Questions and Big Ideas
Big idea of the unit: The diverse geography of the Western Hemisphere has influenced human culture and settlement in distinct ways.
How are physical maps useful in helping us understand different characteristics of a region?
- Physical maps reflect the varied climate zones, landforms, bodies of water, and natural resources of the Western Hemisphere.
What regions is the Western Hemisphere divided into and what are their common identifiable characteristics?
- The Western Hemisphere can be divided into regions.
- Regions are areas that share common, identifiable characteristics such as physical, political, economic, or cultural features.
- Regions within the Western Hemisphere include: North America (Canada and the United States) Mesoamerica (Mexico and Central America) Caribbean South America
How does the physical environment influence human population distribution, land use, and other forms of economic activity?
- The physical environment influences human population distribution, land use, and other forms of economic activity.
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