Chapter 18: The Caucasus and Central Asia "Kazakhstan"

Introduction

Since the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991, many of the former republics have begun to establish their presence in the world community. One way of doing that is by publishing a Web site about their country. The Republic of Kazakhstan's site is full of interesting information about the geography, history, and culture of the country. You can even listen to some of its music online.

Lesson Description

Students will visit the site of the Republic of Kazakhstan. This site is rich in information about every aspect of Kazakhstan's geography, government, culture, and people. After browsing through several pages the student will answer questions and create a travel brochure for this country.

National Geography Standards:
Standard 4: The geographically informed person knows and understands the physical and human characteristics of places.
Standard 10: The geographically informed person knows and understands the characteristics, distribution, and complexity of Earth's cultural mosaics.
Standard 14: The geographically informed person knows and understands how human actions modify the physical environment.
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 important features of the country of Kazakhstan.
2. The student will be able to define natural hazards that face the people of Kazakhstan.
3. The student will be able to describe the way in which human action has impacted the Aral Sea and surrounding areas.

Student Web Activity Answers

1. 48šN, 68šE
2. Hazards include earthquakes in the south, mudslides around Almaty.
3. The two rivers that feed the Aral Sea have been diverted to provide water for irrigation.
4. The word "kazak" means "independent," "free," "wanderer," and "exile."
5. Brochures will vary.

  Go to Student Web Activity