Some of the most useful natural resources from the Southwest region are copper, sliver, iron, coal, and oil. The Southwest is the leading region in the raising of beef cattle and sheep. For this activity, students will create a 3-5 cell spider map that illustrates different natural resources from the Southwest. Spider maps are an excellent tool to help students organize facts in a systematic and visual manner. To differentiate, teachers may choose to give the students a certain number of cells to create, or have the students choose between 3, 4, and 5 cells.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a 3-5 cell spider map explaining the natural resources of the Southwest.
Student Instructions:
Begin by introducing the concept of Southwest resources and the importance of understanding their local and global implications. Discuss the relevance of these resources to students' lives. Guide students in identifying and categorizing various Southwest resources, such as minerals, agriculture, energy sources, and water.
Engage students in local exploration by focusing on the Southwest's specific resources. Provide opportunities for students to research, analyze, and discuss the local significance of these resources. Encourage students to consider how these resources impact their community, economy, and daily lives. Discuss topics like employment, conservation, and sustainability.
Shift the focus to the global perspective. Help students understand how Southwest resources are interconnected with the larger world. Explore questions related to resource distribution, trade, and global environmental concerns. Engage in discussions about resource scarcity, energy demands, and environmental issues that have global relevance.
Facilitate a critical thinking session where students reflect on the implications of Southwest resources from both local and global perspectives. Encourage open discussions and debates on related topics. Guide students in considering potential solutions and actions, such as sustainable resource management and international cooperation. Encourage them to express their opinions and ideas about responsible resource use.
The Southwest region is rich in mineral resources, including copper, uranium, silver, and gold. These minerals play a pivotal role in the regional economy. Copper, in particular, is a major contributor, with Arizona being one of the largest copper-producing states in the nation. The mining industry generates jobs, revenue, and export opportunities, supporting the economic well-being of the region.
The arid climate of the Southwest poses significant challenges, particularly regarding water scarcity. The region faces water management challenges, often exacerbated by prolonged droughts. Wildfires are a recurring threat, impacting both natural ecosystems and human communities. Conservation efforts are crucial for preserving the unique biodiversity and natural landscapes of the Southwest. Environmental factors play a substantial role in shaping these challenges and opportunities.
Worksheets can include activities such as calculating solar panel efficiency, analyzing wind patterns, and examining the economic and environmental benefits of clean energy. These worksheets encourage students to understand the Southwest's vital contribution to renewable energy production, given its abundance of sunlight and wind, and its role in reducing carbon emissions.
Storyboards can visually depict cultural elements from Native American traditions, while worksheets may involve tasks like researching tribal art, creating traditional crafts, and analyzing the cultural significance of Native American influences on the region's arts and crafts. These materials engage students in exploring the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the Southwest.