HSC Geography · People, Patterns and Processes · 7.1 · Student worksheet
The Diversity and Extent of Human Activity on Earth — Activities
Print or work on screen · pairs with the 7.1 study page
Activity 1 — Define the ecological footprint
Syllabus link: 7.1.5 · the ecological footprint
In your own words, describe and define the ecological footprint. Your answer must mention: (a) biologically productive land and water; (b) both supplying consumption and absorbing waste; (c) how it relates to biocapacity and overshoot.
Activity 2 — Diversity of human activity brainstorm
Syllabus link: 7.1.1 · diversity & extent
Brainstorm the diversity of human activity. In the table, list examples that sit at each end of the scale and note the environmental demand each places on natural systems.
| Type of activity | Example (name a real place if you can) | Demand it places on the environment |
|---|
| Small-scale / low-intensity | | |
| Large urban / industrial | | |
| Primary industry (farming/mining) | | |
| Your own choice | | |
Activity 3 — Read the figure
Syllabus link: 7.1.5 · per-capita footprint (Figure 7.1.1)
Look at the ecological-footprint bar chart on the study page (Figure 7.1.1). Answer in short sentences.
- Which income group has the largest per-capita footprint?
- Describe the overall pattern the chart shows.
- Why should you not quote exact heights from this chart in an exam?
Activity 4 — Key concepts
Syllabus link: the seven geographical concepts
For each concept, write one sentence linking it to this chapter.
- Environment (human demand on natural systems):
- Scale (local choices → global footprint):
- Interconnection (activity → biodiversity, climate, scarcity):
- Sustainability (living within biocapacity):
Activity 5 — Short evaluate
Syllabus link: 7.1.3 & 7.1.6 · challenges & consequences
Write 3–4 sentences.
Prompt: "The diversity and extent of human activity are achievements, not just problems." Evaluate this statement, referring to the ecological footprint and overshoot.
Take it further — resources
Real, reputable sources for your own research
