America – a country of contrasts…

The United States of America is made up of 50 individual states.

How many do you know…?

California vs. Alaska

• In pairs decide which statements apply to the state of California or Alaska…

627,000 Population 34 million

Arctic Climate Hot and sunny

Los Angeles Major cities Anchorage

Mt McKinley Highest mountains Mt Whitney

Temperatures can reach 56.7 C

Fascinating fact Has over 3 million lakes

Polar bears Attractions Surfing

Fruit and vegetable Exports Oil

158,700 sq miles Area 591,000 sq miles

Key

What’s so special about Alaska?

• Alaska was bought from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million.

• The Americans thought that the Secretary of State William H. Seward who did the deal was MAD!

Why is Alaska so valuable to the USA?

What…?

When…?

Who…?

Why…?

Where…?

How…?

Alaska’s future??• Read through the information about

Alaska.

• What advantages does oil bring to Alaska/USA?

• What disadvantages are there with oil exploitation?

• What needs protecting in Alaska?• How can Alaska be protected?

Poster Power• You have been asked to design a poster to

advertise the views of either…

1. BP who wish to continue exploiting oil in Alaska

OR

2. WWF (World Wildlife Fund for Nature) who wish to protect the environment

Poster Points…Level 3 – It is clear which view your poster is supporting. You

have included a simple image and some key words.

Level 4 – Your images are clear and effectively show what view point you are supporting. The design is neatly presented and some facts are included.

Level 5 – Your poster is striking and professional looking. It may include some humour or powerful images.

Level 6 – The same as level 5 but your poster contains very original views and shows that you clearly understand the conflicts involved in Alaska