Using Venn Diagrams to Compare Two Ecosystems
The following lesson helps students identify and describe differences between two related ecosystems.

Kings of the Kalahari
In this lesson, students will study the defining characteristics of deserts, the physical geography and biota—or flora and fauna—of the Kalahari Desert, and the biological adaptations (in structures, behaviors, and physiology) that enhance lions' (and other cats') survival and reproductive success in such a demanding ecosystem.

Oceania: Pacific Palaces
Students research the region  known as "Oceania" to learn ways in which the physical characteristics affects human activities and how the people affect the islands. Students will then design their own "Pacific Palace", along with its physical characteristics. They will tell how these characteristics affect humans there and how humans have adapted.

Why Preserve Biodiversity?
In this lesson from the National Geographic website, students discuss the importance of maintaining ecosystems and find out about the various arguments that people make in favor of preserving the Earth's biodiversity.

Climate Controls
This lesson has student consider how various parts of the world and the United States are affected by climate controls such as world air currents.

Where, Oh Where Are the Resources?
Because latitude influences climate, there is a relationship between latitude and resources associated with biomes.  This lesson explores how common resources within a latitudinal region promotes patterns of human activity. (Click on cancel twice to bypass password)

What do People know about the Arctic and Antarctic?
In this lesson, students will research the landscapes, climates, and animal life of the polar regions. They will then interview people to find out what they think and know about the regions. They will conclude by writing paragraphs explaining why it's important to know about the polar regions and detailing the differences between the two regions.

Two Ecosystems
This lesson has students consider how various parts of the world and the United States are affected by climate controls such as world air currents.

The U.S. Forest Service
This U.S. Department of Agriculture agency site is home to Smoky Bear and Woodsy Owl—plus photos, news, and more.

Habitats
Learn all about habitats and ecosystems from National Geographic's "Habitats" homepage!

The Poles
Explore the ends of the Earth to compare and contrast each region.

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