, Student Web Activities, Glencoe World Geography, Glencoe, 2003

:
"The New Russia"

Introduction
In this chapter you have studied how life in Russia has changed since the collapse of communism, and you have learned about the major challenges Russians face in transforming their country to a market economy. More and more tourists around the world are visiting Russia to enjoy its beautiful and historic cities and to explore its natural treasures. In this activity you will visit a site that exhibits some of Russia's most historic and popular destinations.

Destination Title: Welcome to the New Russia

Directions
Start at the New Russia Web site.

Click on the Moscow icon. Then click on Attractions.
From here, click on and read about the different attractions described.
Return to the main screen and click on the St. Petersburg icon. Then click on and read about the Historical Sites of St. Petersburg.
Click on the Lake Baikal icon and read about this natural treasure.
Click on Trans-Siberian Railway and read the information presented.

Using the information you gathered exploring the above topics, answer the following questions.

1. What purpose does the Kremlin serve today?

2. Of the historic sites in St. Petersburg, which would you most like to visit? Why?

3. Describe the features and surroundings that make Lake Baikal a "naturalist's paradise."

4. What is the Trans-Siberian Railway? What is the usual route taken by passengers?

5. On a large sheet of paper or a poster board, draw an accurate map of the route traveled by the Trans-Siberian rail line. Use a detailed map of Russia to guide you as you map this route. Include the starting and ending points of the line, each city through which the train passes, and major rivers and other bodies of water. Next to each city on the route, write a few sentences highlighting interesting facts about its history or features.