Tourism's Impact

11thSocial Studies90 min

Learning Objective

I can evaluate the economic and environmental impacts of tourism in different regions.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

10 min

How Antarctica's tourist boom could affect Earth's 'last great wilderness'

PBS NewsHour

Guided Notes

18 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • Antarctica has seen a tourist boom, with a record 50,000 people visiting last year to see wildlife like humpback whales and penguins.

  • The Antarctic Peninsula is particularly vulnerable to climate change, and an increase in tourism could put extra pressure on the ecosystem.

  • Tour groups follow strict, voluntary regulations, such as limiting one ship at a time at designated sites, but concerns remain about the impact of invasive species and stress on wildlife.

Practice

27 min

12 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Describe one economic benefit and one environmental concern associated with tourism in Antarctica, based on the video.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts

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