Physical Geography, Climate, and First Peoples of North America

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering North American physical geography, climate impacts on settlement, and regional environmental adaptations of First Peoples.

Physical features shared by the U.S. and Canada

The Great Lakes and the Rocky Mountains.

Oceans bordering Canada

The Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Arctic Ocean to the north.

Appalachian Mountains age determination

Determined to be America's oldest range by the rock layers within the mountain that reveal its age.

Characteristics of old vs. young mountains

Young mountains are tall and jagged because they are still forming, whereas older mountains have eroded, making them appear lower and more rounded.

Tundra population factors

Has a very small population because the climate is extremely cold and there are not many jobs available for people.

Canada's climate impact on settlement

Causes people not to settle in the northern parts of Canada because it is too cold.

Settlement pattern similarity (Canada and the U.S.)

Most people in Canada settle along the U.S. border, and most people in the U.S. settle along the Canadian border.

First arrival of people in North America

People first arrived in North America by ship.

Northwest American Indian culture

An indigenous culture that incorporated the rich forests and coastal waters in their environment as part of their culture.

Southwest American Indian culture

An indigenous culture that adapted to their dry climate by using tactics like irrigation.