TGC Fellow Unit Template *

Prepared by: Anita Benedix

School/Location: Southern Lehigh Middle School in Center
Valley, PA
Subject: Social Studies
Grade: 7
Unit Title: East Asia: The People and Their Environment
Time Needed: 3-4 weeks
Unit Summary: Students will learn about the physical and cultural characteristics of East Asia. They will
explore information about how the environment has affected peoples way of living as well as the ways in
which development and globalization have impacted both the environment and cultures.

Stage 1 Desired Results

ESTABLISHED GOALS:
from PA Academic Standards for
Geography
7.1.7 B - Explain and locate places
and regions as defined by physical
and human features.
7.2.7 - Explain the characteristics of
places and regions.
7.3.7.A - Describe the human
characteristics
of places and regions using the
following criteria: Population, Culture,
& Settlement
7.4.7.A - Describe and explain the
effects of the physical systems on
people within regions.
7.4.7.B - Describe and explain the
effects of people on the physical
systems within regions.
GLOBAL COMPETENCY:
1) Investigate the world beyond
their immediate environment.
2) Recognize perspectives, others
and own.
RESOURCES:
http://education.nationalgeographic.c
om/
http://www.discoveryeducation.com/

Transfer
Students will be able to independently use their learning to(real world
purpose)
T1. use critical thinking skills to identify cause and effect.
T2. compare and contrast diverse perspectives.
T3. evaluate the potential for far-reaching effect of decisions.
Meaning
UNDERSTANDINGS
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
Students will understand that
E1. How does location impact life in
U1. people around the world may
East Asia?
have different perspectives but will
E2. How have humans modified and
have many of the same core values
impacted the environment in the
(i.e. family)
region?
U2. their decisions may have a farE3. How have the cultures of East
reaching effect on the world that may Asia balanced tradition and
not be immediately identifiable.
modernization in global society?
Acquisition
Students will know (Content)
Students will be able to (Skills)
how early and modern
evaluate pros and cons of
civilizations in East Asia us the
rapid industrial growth.
analyze the connection
land.
what natural resources are
population density and
available in East Asian
location in East Asia and
nations.
compare it with that of the
what is the difference
United States.
analyze the connection
between market and
command economies and how
between population growth
have these affected
and industry.
identify the benefits and
prosperity.
what are the ways that
challenges of urbanization.