The Basin and Range Province defines the landscape of the interior western U.S. from southern Oregon to northwest Mexico, from Salt Lake City to Reno. This vast region of parallel high mountain ranges bordered by lengthy valleys contains much of the wealth and lore of the West over the last two centuries.

Learning Objective

Students will learn about the mountainous land between Oregon and Arizona called the Great Basin.

Social Studies Standards

People, Places & Environments: E, H, I

Discussion Prompts

• Death Valley’s temperature can get up to 130 degrees Fahrenheit, the hottest temperature in the United States. How does this compare to the climate in your hometown? What precautions would you need to take if you lived here?
• Oatman, a historic mining town along Route 66, is known for allowing burros to have the right of way. Why do you think the town gives them priority, and how do the burros contribute to Oatman’s history and culture?
• Walker Lake is described as a remnant lake. What does this mean and how has the lake changed over time? 
• The video describes herds of wild horses and wild burros roaming freely. What are some pros and cons of wild animals living in these environments? Can you think of a similar example in your own community?

Lesson Activities

• Research the South Steens and Kiger Mustang herds of roaming horses in Southeastern Oregon. Create an infographic that includes what they eat, how they find water in the Great Basin region, and what they look like.
• Create a topographical map of the Great Basin region that includes the four states shown in the video. Be sure to label the vegetation (such as trees and grasses) and key landscape features mentioned in the video. 
• Imagine you are a historian investigating the discovery of gold in Nevada. Write a podcast or newspaper article describing how gold was discovered in the region. Include important facts, historical details, and information learned from the video.
• The host of the video has asked you to help create an illustrated field guide page for the saguaro cactus. Research and create an illustrated diagram showing its main structures, including the roots, stem, spines, flowers, and arms. Include facts about how the saguaro cactus has adapted to survive extreme desert heat and long periods of drought.

Vocabulary

• bunkers
• burros
• devious
• incorporated
• ingenuity
• mechanized
• nuggets
• ore
• prospector
• unpretentious

Download

In the Americas Season 12 Lesson Episode 10