question to ponder: what tools or units would you use to measure the size of your shoe?

Question to ponder:

What tools or units would you use to measure the size of your shoe?

How about the size of this room?

How about our city?

Project:Where should we build a new US military base

in Australia, New Zealand, or Antarctica?

Task : After researching your notes, information in your textbook, and at least three articles on physical processes of a region, write a defense department briefing that identifies the problem of where to locate a new military base and argues for a solution. Support your position with evidence from your research.Level 2 Be sure to examine competing views. Level 3 Give examples from past or current issues to illustrate and clarify your position.

Background:

The US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has recently announced our intentions to build a major military installation in the Southern Hemisphere, in a location yet to be determined. A research team has identified Australia, New Zealand, and Antarctica as final candidates for selection.

You have been hired by the US Department of Defense to research and write a report that proposes the best location for a new US military base in the Australia, New Zealand, and Antarctica region.

The USA is very interested in showing a strong presence in this part of the world to balance the growth of China. Of special concern for you are the physical geographic features that will make the base possible.

Pay close attention to avoid places that do not meet the criteria of the Defense Department. Be prepared to support your decision with evidence from your reading.

Defense Department criteria: 1. Topography: Located near flatland plains for airfield and coastal access for ships, avoid dangerous reefs.

2. Temperature must be above freezing for at least 90% of the year (reasonable climate) and precipitation must be below 40 in/ year.

3. Avoid tectonic fault lines (earthquakes) and volcanoes

4. Avoid natural hazards (tsunamis, typhoons, and icebergs)

5. Access to freshwater for personnel (avoid arid regions)

6. Local population sufficient for support services (>50 persons/sq mi) but must be >20 miles from major urban center.

7. Avoid environmental and wildlife disruption.