1. Grade 6 Social Studies Oct. 14
Ch. 3 Big Ideas

2. Canada and U.S.
Canada and the U.S. are two countries that are large (physically) and powerful economically.
Their heritage (U.S.-British, Canada-British-French) differ from other countries in the Americas.
They are powerful and influential countries in the region and throughout the world.

3. Physically Isolated
The Atlantic and Pacific Ocean separate North America from other continents.
For hundreds of years, this kept N. America isolated.
This has helped protect N. America from wars.
Technology (ships in the 1500s, internet and modern transport today) have made it easy to connect.

4. Physical Processes Change Land
Glaciers carved hills, valleys, and lakes into the countryside.
Erosion (wearing away of soil and stone by wind, rivers, and rain) has also created different landforms.
The U.S. and Canada both have large and important river systems. River systems serve as means of transport for people and goods.

5. Regions Atlantic Coast Plain Appalachian Mountains Central Lowlands
Great Plains
The Rocky Mountains and Coastal Ranges
Intermountain Region
Canadian Shield

6. Conclusions
North America is big. North America has a variety of landforms and physical regions. This variety affects culture in the different regions and helps make these countries prosperous.

7. Natural Wealth
Canada and the U.S. are both very rich in natural resources.
Good farmland in the Central Lowlands and Great Plains.
Forests in western Canada and western/northeastern U.S.
Oil
Coal

8. Water Routes Many systems of rivers and lakes
These areas are good for farming and raising livestock.
Also good for transporting/shipping goods.
Fishing is another industry.

9. Climate and Vegetation
Just like landforms, Canada and U.S. have a variety of climates and vegetation.
Vegetation is affected by the climate and physical geography of a region.
This means that many different kinds of plants, and trees grow there. This vegetation can be used as food or for other products.

10. Neighbors and Leaders
Canada and the U.S. are closely tied together. They have close economic connections. They also are allies in regards to national security.
They are both members of the G8, a group of 8 highly industrialized, powerful countries.
NAFTA was a free trade agreement between the countries of North America. This greatly increased the trade between these countries and made connections even closer. Not all people benefitted from this change.