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Canada’s Human Geography

Choose one of the following regions to research and answer the questions that follow:
1. Atlantic Canada (Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick)
2. Central Canada (Quebec and Ontario)
3. The Prairie Provinces (Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta)
4. The West Coast (British Columbia)
5. The Northern Territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut)
Answer the questions below based on your region:
1. Population Distribution:
- What is the population density of your region? What factors explain the concentration of population in certain areas?
Population Density: The Northern Territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut) have a very low population
density. For example, Nunavut has about 0.02 people per square kilometer, one of the lowest in the world. This is due
to its harsh climate, remote location, and difficult terrain, which make large-scale settlement challenging.
- How do geographic features like climate, landforms, or proximity to natural resources affect where people live?
Geographic Features: The Arctic climate, with long, freezing winters and short summers, discourages large
populations. Most people live in small communities along the coast, where they can access natural resources such as
fish and game. Proximity to water and better transportation routes are also factors in where people settle.
2. Cultural Diversity and Indigenous Peoples:

- What cultural groups and immigrant populations are found in your region? What impact does immigration have on
the cultural landscape?
The Indigenous peoples, mainly the Inuit, First Nations, and Métis, make up a significant part of the population. In
recent years, small immigrant populations have arrived, but the North remains predominantly Indigenous. Immigration
is gradually increasing diversity, but it remains limited due to the region's isolation.
- How have Indigenous Peoples historically shaped and interacted with the land in your region?
Indigenous peoples have lived in the North for thousands of years, developing deep knowledge of the land and its
resources. They relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering for survival, and their cultural practices are deeply
connected to the environment.
- What challenges or opportunities do Indigenous communities face today in terms of land, resources, or
governance?
Indigenous communities face challenges related to land rights, resource development, and governance. Climate
change, in particular, threatens their traditional ways of life. However, there are also opportunities in the form of
self-governance and land claims settlements, allowing for more control over resources and decision-making
3. Economic Activities and Resources:
- What are the main economic activities in your region (e.g., agriculture, fishing, manufacturing, natural resource
extraction)?
Natural resource extraction is the main economic driver, with mining (especially diamonds, gold, and minerals), oil
and gas, and tourism being key industries. Fishing and traditional hunting also play important roles in the economy.
- How do natural resources shape employment opportunities and the economy in your region?
Natural resources provide many jobs, especially in mining. However, these jobs are often temporary and can lead to
environmental damage.
- What environmental challenges arise from these economic activities, and how are they addressed?
Mining and oil extraction can harm the environment, including pollution and habitat destruction. Climate change is
another significant issue, leading to melting permafrost and changing ecosystems. To address these challenges,
there are efforts to promote sustainable practices and preserve Indigenous land rights.
4. Urbanization and Major Cities:
- What are the major cities in your region, and how are they connected to the region’s economy and geography?
The largest settlements include Whitehorse in Yukon, Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories, and Iqaluit in Nunavut.
These cities act as administrative and economic hubs for their regions, with industries like government services,
transportation, and tourism supporting their growth.
- How has urbanization affected land use, housing, and transportation in your region?
Urbanization has led to more housing and transportation infrastructure in these cities, but they are still quite small
compared to cities in other regions of Canada. In some areas, there are challenges with housing shortages and
access to reliable transportation due to the vast distances and harsh climate.
Wrap Up:
Based on your understanding of population distribution, why do you think Northern Canada remains sparsely
populated despite its size?
Northern Canada remains sparsely populated because of its extreme climate, limited
infrastructure, and distance from major economic centers. The region's harsh winters, isolation,
and lack of arable land make large-scale population growth difficult, despite its size. Additionally,
much of the land is traditional Indigenous territory, with limited urban development.

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Name: Date:

Canada’s Human Geography

2. Cultural Diversity and Indigenous Peoples:

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