Lesson 1:LAND AND RESOURCES OF AFRICA

1. Fill in the Blank: Fill in the blank with the correct words.

a) The Suez Canal connects the Red Sea along the northeast coast of _____ and _____.

b) The Sahara Desert is the world’s largest ___________.

c) The Sahel borders the ______ Desert and stretches down into grassy savannah lands.

d) Timbuktu and Djenne are located in the ______.

e) Nigeria is rich in ________ resources and is a major exporter of petroleum products.

2. When was the Suez Canal built? Which places are connected by it?
3. Sahel is an inhabitable area. Explain why?
4. Elucidate the formation of The Rift Valley.
5. European explorers and merchants established settlements along the coast of Africa to ship products
to sell in other parts of the world. What are some of the products you think were shipped? Write
sentences describing products or natural resources found in Africa that would have been new to
Europeans in the 7th century.
6. Mark the following locations on the physical map of Africa. List one city or feature that is nearby or on
each river.
Nile River Zambezi River Sahara Desert
Niger River Atlantic Ocean Great Rift Vally
Indian Ocean Congo River Congo Basin
7. Read the following passage and answer the following questions:-
The Rich Land and Resources of Africa
One of the most iconic features of Africa is the Sahara Desert, the largest hot desert in the world.
Stretching across many countries in North Africa, the Sahara covers an area almost as big as the
United States. Despite its arid conditions, the Sahara is not entirely barren and supports unique
plant and animal life adapted to the harsh environment. Moving south, the savannas of Africa
dominate much of the continent's central region. These vast grasslands are home to a variety of
wildlife, including zebras, lions, and elephants. The savannas also provide fertile land for
agriculture, making them important for both wildlife and human populations.
To the south of the savannas lies the Congo Basin, a region dominated by lush rainforests. These
forests are teeming with biodiversity, with countless species of plants and animals calling them
home. The Congo Basin is often referred to as the "lungs of Africa" due to its role in regulating the
Earth's climate through oxygen production and carbon absorption. Apart from its diverse
landscapes, Africa is also rich in natural resources. The continent is a major producer of minerals
such as gold, diamonds, and copper, with many countries relying on mining as a key economic
activity. Oil reserves in countries like Nigeria and Angola are crucial to the global energy market.

1. What makes the Sahara Desert an iconic feature of Africa?

2. Describe the biodiversity found in the Congo Basin.
3. How are the savannas of Africa important for both wildlife and human populations?

Next Step question- Attempt any one

Q1 Explain in detail how specific landforms and a diverse range of natural resources in various
regions across Africa have contributed to both its economic growth and long-term
environmental stability through the utilization of sustainable practices.
Q2 What are some of the natural resources found in Africa, and how do they contribute to the
continent's economy and global trade?
Q3 What are the major hindrances and complexities that hinder Africa's effective harnessing
and reaping the advantages of its abundant natural resources, thereby impeding its
economic growth and sustainable development?