In this virtual experience, students will…

• Investigate the biodiversity of the Amazon River and its surrounding rainforest, by examining the unique adaptations of flora and fauna to this ecosystem.
• Analyze the environmental impact of human activity on the Amazon River and its surrounding rainforest, by researching and comparing the effects of deforestation, mining, and other forms of development.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of the Amazon River in South American societies, by examining how it has been viewed and utilized by indigenous peoples throughout history.

Lesson overview

The Amazon River is the second-longest river in the world and the largest river in terms of the amount of water it carries. It is located in South America and flows through six countries: Peru, Bolivia, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Brazil. The Amazon River and its tributaries together make up the largest rainforest in the world, known as the Amazon rainforest.

The Amazon rainforest is a diverse ecosystem that is home to millions of species of plants, animals, and insects. It is estimated that there are over 40,000 plant species, 2.5 million insect species, and more than 2,000 species of birds and mammals in the Amazon rainforest. This makes it one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.

The Amazon rainforest is also a vital source of oxygen and carbon dioxide absorption, helping to regulate the Earth’s climate. It is often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth” for this reason.

Despite its importance, the Amazon rainforest is under threat from deforestation and other forms of human activity. It is estimated that around 20% of the rainforest has already been destroyed, with devastating consequences for the environment and the communities that rely on it.