Everywhere in the world, there are people who have a difficult time meeting basic needs such as employment, nutrition, education, clothing and water. These people are living in poverty. This unit introduces students to this social issue affecting nearly 3 billion people or every 1 in 2 people – the majority in developing countries.

The unit also encourages students to explore the reasons why poverty exists and what can be done to reduce it globally and at home. Students will be introduced to the Team Project that they will be completing throughout the entire module.

Unit Goals

1. Situate the First and Third World geographically.
2. Relate territory to basic human needs.
3. Explore the similarities and differences related to basic human needs in Canada and the developing world.

In this Unit

Learning Activities:

• Activity 1: World Mapping*
• Activity 2: Brainstorm on the "First World" & "Third World", & on the Concept of Poverty*
• Activity 3: Poverty & Basic Human Needs Mix & Match Game
• Activity 4: Child & Youth Poverty in Canada Discussion/Math Activities*
• Activity 5: Poverty Quizzes
• Activity 6: Begin Work on Learning Tree Storyboard Project

Fact Sheet:

• Poverty, Development & Basic Human Needs*
• Child & Youth Poverty in Canada*

Student Handouts:

• What is the Learning Tree Storyboard Project?
• Learning Tree Storyboard Template
• Learning Tree Storyboard HIV/AIDS Example
• Learning Tree Storyboard Research Tool: Clouds
• Learning Tree Storyboard Research Tool: Branches/Trunk
• Learning Tree Storyboard Research Tool: Roots
• Learning Tree Storyboard Research Tool: Ground
• Learning Tree Storyboard Research Tool: Beaver
• Poverty & Basic Human Needs Mix & Match Game
• General Resources for Students

Teacher Handouts:

• What Is the Learning Tree Storyboard Project?
• Poverty & Basic Human Needs Mix & Match Game Answer Sheet