Our United StatesLands, Waterways, and Climates

Chapter 1.2

Essential Question:How does geography influence the way people live?

Chapter Terms

• Landform• Lowlands• Plains• Wetlands• Highlands• Plateau• Tributary• Canal• Climate

How does geography …

… influence …

… the way people live?

What is a landform?A landform is a natural feature on the earth’s surface.

• Lowlands - land at or near sea level– plains & prairies– wetlands– meadows & grasslands

• Highlands - land elevated high above sea level– Plateau– Mountains

Major WaterwaysWhat important waterways are found in the United States?

• Rivers – Example: The Mississippi River– Tributary – a stream or small river that feeds into a larger river

Lakes & Intracoastal Waterways

The Great Lakes• YouTube: Coast Guard ice

breakers work to keep Great Lakes shipping channels open

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72uu1bNAHwM

Lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and

Superior

Canals – human-made waterways used for transportation, irrigation, or drainage

Examples: Erie Canal & Panama Canal

• YouTube: Erie Canal (Lyrics by Bruce Springsteen)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Koj5yGigFNU

• YouTube: The Panama Canal / PBS America

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pv0upmpPw3c

Transportation & Irrigation

• YouTube: Frontenac passes through Lock 3

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVuQIgt1eSg

How does climate impact the way people live?

Temperate Zones vs. Extreme Climates

Climate – the pattern of weather that a place experiences over a long period of time.

Review 1. Would Key West be considered highlands or lowlands? Explain

how it affects our lifestyle here in the Keys.

2. What is the significance, or importance, of the “Great” Mississippi River?

3. How do you think our intracoastal waterways helped in the explorations and growth of the United States?

4. What are the names of the five Great Lakes? Which is the largest?

5. Where are the Erie and Panama Canals located, and why are they still considered so important even today?

6. Think of the state you call “home”. Describe its climate. What do you like/dislike about its climate?

End Chapter 1.2