Chapter 14: Russia—A Eurasian Country "Siberia"

Introduction

In this chapter students read about the size and diversity of Russia. The name Siberia has created images of a vast, frozen tundra and empty wasteland. Although the climate may be harsh, Siberia has long been a home to a number of indigenous people. They have found ways to adapt to the environment.

Lesson Description

In this lesson students will visit an exhibit from the National Museum of Natural History. This display provides photographs and descriptions of four of the Native people of Siberia. Students will study the pictures and text in order to answer questions. Then they will design a poster that shows how these people have adapted to the harsh Siberian landscape.

National Geography Standards:
Standard 4: The geographically informed person knows and understands the physical and human characteristics of places.
Standard 9: The geographically informed person knows and understands the characteristics, distribution, and migration of human populations on Earth's surface.
Standard 15: The geographically informed person knows and understands how physical systems affect human systems.

Instructional Objectives

1. The student will be able to describe the dress of four different Native people of Siberia.
2. The student will be able to describe ways in which these Native people adapted to the harsh environment of Siberia.

Student Web Activity Answers

1. It is a long salmonskin coat. Its design reflects a Chinese influence.
2. There are Venetian trade beads sewn onto the costume. Those beads would not have been made in Siberia. They would have been obtained by trade.
3. to guard against harmful spirits and sterility
4. "rich in reindeer"
5. Posters will vary.

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