Desert Places
Desert Places
In this article we will learn more about some of the deserts of the world using the interactive map below. We will then work in small groups and choose one particular desert and find out more about it.
The interactive map is mainly about the physical geography of the deserts – where they are, what type of desert they are and some information about the animals that live there.
In the last article in this Issue of Geography in the News, ‘Desert people’, we will look at the way that humans interact with the desert environments in which they live.
Flash Player Required
Pupil Activity
Working in groups of three or four, choose one particular desert (or region of a larger desert) and research it.
The desert you choose does not have to be one of the ones from the interactive map – just make sure that you are able to find plenty of information about it.
Remember that there are several types of desert to choose from, not just hot, sub-tropical deserts.
Gather information about the desert’s:
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geography (where it is, what the landscape is like)
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climate
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brief notes about the animals and plants found there
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the names of some of the communities and ethnic groups who live there
Don’t use just one source of information! It can be tempting to just go to the first result you get from an internet search (often Wikipedia) and stay there.
There are plenty of sources of information about the natural world in books, magazines and television documentaries. The internet is also a good resource, but try to find a variety of reliable websites to look at.
Make sure that you have collected enough information during this session to make a good start in the next stage of the pupil activity. Your teacher may check your work to make sure you have done enough research.
