This integrated unit of instruction will capitalize on the novelty of the subject matter, namely the countries of Central Asia, to help students explore the interplay between the natural and man-made worlds. One advantage of this subject matter is that incorrect preconceptions will be minimal or non-existent, so the study of this area of the world will help to provide a clearer lens for the study of the interconnectedness of the natural and man-made spheres in America. Another advantage is that students will gain an appreciation for countries and cultures that are not typically the focus of middle school curricula.
Specifically, this unit of instruction will offer students the opportunity to examine common sets of data both from the perspective of the social and the natural sciences. For this reason it is strongly suggested that science and social studies teachers coordinate the lessons as described so that students will be continually approaching common content from two distinct p
