An introduction to the Anthropocene
I can describe the meaning of the term 'Anthropocene' and can explain why it is debated by scientists.
An introduction to the Anthropocene
I can describe the meaning of the term 'Anthropocene' and can explain why it is debated by scientists.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Human activity affects Earth's physical systems.
- Population increase has significantly increased the human impact on Earth's physical systems.
- Industrialisation significantly increased the human impact on Earth's systems.
- The Anthropocene is a term used to describe a new geological age shaped by humans.
- The term "Anthropocene" is debated by scientists.
Keywords
Atmosphere - the layer of gases that surrounds Earth. It includes the oxygen we need to breathe, so it is essential for life on Earth
Hydrosphere - includes all the water on Earth, such as oceans, rivers, lakes, glaciers, groundwater, and water vapour in the atmosphere
Geosphere - the solid parts of Earth, including the crust, mantle, and core, as well as rocks, soil, mountains, and other landforms
Biosphere - life on Earth, encompassing all living organisms (plants, animals, bacteria, etc.) and the ecosystems they form
Anthropocene - proposed geological epoch that marks when human activity has had a significant impact on Earth
Common misconception
The Anthropocene is the period of Earth’s history from when homosapiens first evolved.
The Anthropocene is a proposed geological epoch that marks the period in Earth’s history during which human activity has had a significant impact on Earth.
To help you plan your year 9 geography lesson on: An introduction to the Anthropocene, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 geography lesson on: An introduction to the Anthropocene, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 3 geography lessons from the Anthropocene: What is the impact of humans on the world? unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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