Ecosystem Change Investigation 6-1:
How Do Cultures Affect Ecosystems?
Conduct a library research project to analyze what is known about a culture and its relationship to natural resources and the land.
Include in your report
• What are the culture’s main sources of energy and food?
• Describe the nature of land use.
• To what extent do these land use practices change the ecosystem?
• What evidence is there that the culture is “out of balance” or “in harmony” with nature?
• What lessons can we apply to current environmental problems?
• Document your references and include maps or diagrams.
The following lists of existing and vanished cultures are offered as possible topics, but feel free to come up with your own selection.
Lost Civilizations |
Contemporary Cultures |
Anasazi of the Southwest U.S.
Easter Island
Mayan culture
Mali empire of Africa
Native American Mound Builders
Ancient Hebrews
Ancient Egyptians
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African forest people
Bushmen of the Kalahari,
Shoam
Eskimo people
Native Americans of the Amazon
Various Native Americans from North America
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