Landscapes of the Americas

A 5-lesson sequence for 7th-grade students investigating the physical geography, tectonic forces, river systems, and climate zones of North and South America. Students explore how geological processes and environmental factors shape diverse ecosystems and human habitation across the Western Hemisphere.

Tectonic Forces and Landforms

Students examine the Ring of Fire and plate tectonics to understand how mountains and volcanoes are formed in the Americas. They analyze the correlation between plate boundaries and major ranges like the Andes and Cascades.

Major River Systems

Learners investigate the economic and ecological roles of the Amazon, Mississippi, and Orinoco river basins. Students conduct a comparative analysis of drainage areas and biodiversity, discussing how these rivers act as lifelines for their respective regions.

Climate Zones and Latitude

This lesson focuses on the vast latitudinal stretch of the Americas to explain the variation in climate zones. Students predict climate types based on latitude and elevation, then verify their predictions using climate maps.

Vertical Zonation in the Andes

Students explore the concept of vertical zonation (tierra caliente, templada, fría) to understand how elevation mimics changes in latitude. They create diagrams illustrating how crops and ecosystems change as one moves up a mountain.

Investigating Biodiversity Hotspots

The sequence concludes with a focus on specific biomes like the Amazon Rainforest and the Great Plains. Students research the unique flora and fauna of these regions to understand biodiversity and ecosystem fragility.