The Namib Desert is a unique and fascinating feature located in the southwestern region of Africa. With a length of approximately 2,000 kilometers, it is considered the world’s oldest desert and covers an area of almost 81,000 square kilometers.

Teaching students about the Namib Desert on an Africa map is an excellent way of introducing them to geographical features and climate conditions prevalent in African countries. Here are some factors to consider when teaching students about the Namib Desert.

Location

To teach students about the Namib Desert, it is essential to point out its location on an African map. The desert covers several countries, including Angola, Namibia, and South Africa. An accurate and detailed map will enable students to understand how the desert overlaps borders and influences human activity.

Climate

The Namib Desert is considered a coastal desert due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Since the ocean’s cool air meets the hot desert heat, the result is the formation of sea fog. The students should learn about the climate conditions such as extreme temperatures, ranging from 0 degrees Celsius at night to over 50 degrees Celsius during the day.

Wildlife

The Namib Desert is home to a unique assortment of plants and animals that have adapted to the dry, barren conditions. Some of the common animal species include the Namib web-footed gecko, the Namib sand snake, and the oryx antelope. Students should explore the adaptations of desert animals to their environment and understand how they survive in limited resources.

Human activity

Despite the adverse conditions, the Namib desert hosts several communities that have adapted to the environment. These communities, such as the Himba people, rely on the wilderness for their survival, for instance, the use of indigenous plants for food, medicine, and other activities such as hunting. Students must learn about such communities’ culture, and the impact of human activities on the desert.

Conclusion

Teaching students about the Namib Desert establishes a foundation for the students’ global education and broadens their knowledge and understanding of the African continent. As the students learn about the desert’s geography, wildlife, and human activity, they gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of natural occurrences and the importance of conserving the Namib Desert.