Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term - Senior Secondary 2

TERM – 3^RD TERM

WEEK THREE

Class: Senior Secondary School 2

Age: 16 years

Duration: 40 minutes of 5 periods each

Date:

Subject: Geography

Topic: AFRICA RELIEF AND DRAINAGE

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to

1. Identify and describe highlands and lowlands areas of Africa
2. State the advantages and disavanatages of highlands and lowlands in Africa
3. Describe the drainage pattern of Africa
4. Highlight the main characteristics of rivers and lakes in Africa and their importance to man

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers,

demonstration, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Videos, loud speaker, textbook, pictures

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES

PERIOD 1-2

NOTE

AFRICA RELIEF AND DRAINAGE

Highlands and Lowlands in Africa

Highlands

Highlands refer to areas of elevated terrain or topography characterized by significant altitudes or heights above sea level. These regions are often distinguished by rugged landscapes, mountains, plateaus, and hills.

Africa has diverse highland regions, including the Ethiopian Highlands, the East African Rift, and the Drakensberg Mountains. These areas are characterized by elevated terrain, often with rugged landscapes, mountains, and plateaus.

Advantages of Highlands

1. Highlands often offer a range of climates, supporting diverse ecosystems and vegetation.
2. Elevated terrain provides opportunities for hydropower generation from rivers flowing through highland areas.
3. Scenic beauty and unique landscapes in highlands can attract tourism.

Disadvantages of Highlands

1. Steep and rugged terrain can hinder transportation and infrastructure development.
2. Not all highlands have fertile soil, limiting agricultural potential.
3. High rainfall in some highland regions can increase the risk of landslides.

Lowlands

Lowlands refer to areas of relatively low elevation or altitude in a region. These areas are characterized by flat or gently undulating terrain and are often found at lower altitudes compared to nearby highland or mountainous regions.

Lowland areas in Africa encompass vast plains and coastal regions. Examples include the Sahara Desert lowlands, the Congo Basin lowlands, and coastal plains along the continent's extensive coastline.

Advantages of Lowlands

1. Many lowland areas have fertile soils, supporting agriculture and cultivation.
2. Generally, lowlands are more accessible, facilitating transportation and development.
3.  Lowland regions often host diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Disadvantages of Lowlands

1. Coastal lowlands are vulnerable to flooding, especially during storms or tsunamis.
2. Some lowland areas, like deserts, may experience harsh climatic conditions.
3. With climate change, low-lying coastal areas are at risk of sea-level rise.

Drainage Pattern of Africa

Africa exhibits a variety of drainage patterns, influenced by its diverse topography. The major drainage basins include the Nile Basin, Congo Basin, Niger Basin, Zambezi Basin, and the Orange Basin. The Nile River, the longest in the world, flows northward into the Mediterranean Sea. The Congo River, with its extensive network, drains central Africa, while the Niger and Zambezi rivers flow towards the Atlantic Ocean, and the Orange River towards the South Atlantic.

 Characteristics of Rivers and Lakes in Africa

1. Nile River: This is the longest river globally, originating from Lake Victoria; flows north through several countries. It is crucial for agriculture, supporting civilizations throughout history; major water source.
2. Congo River: This is the second-largest river in Africa, vast basin covering central Africa. It is typically essential for transportation, hydroelectric power potential, and rich biodiversity in Africa.
3. Niger River: Its flows westward, supporting various ecosystems and countries.

   Essential for agriculture, transportation, and sustenance of local communities.

4. Zambezi River: The Zambezi river flows across southern Africa, forming Victoria Falls. It is significant for agriculture, hydropower generation, and tourism.
5. Lake Victoria: This is the largest lake in Africa, firming part of the Nile Basin.

 It is vital for fisheries, agriculture, and as a source of the Nile River.

6. Lake Tanganyika: This is the second-deepest lake globally, located in the East African Rift. It's supports unique biodiversity, crucial for local communities.
7. Lake Malawi (Nyasa): Lake Malawi is a rift Valley lake, known for its diverse fish species. It's essential for fisheries and local livelihoods.

Importance of Rivers and Lakes  to Humanity

1. Rivers and lakes provide water for irrigation, supporting agriculture and food production.
2. Many African rivers serve as natural transportation routes, facilitating trade and connectivity.
3. Rivers with significant flow contribute to hydropower generation, meeting energy needs.
4. Lakes and rivers harbor diverse ecosystems, sustaining unique flora and fauna.
5. These water bodies are primary sources of freshwater for drinking, sanitation, and industrial use.
6. Many rivers and lakes hold cultural importance, playing roles in folklore, traditions, and spiritual beliefs.

EVALUATION: 1. Differentiate between highlands and lowlands.

2. Give 2 advantages and 2 disadvantages of highlands
3. Identify 5 characteristics of rivers and lakes in Africa
4. Mention 5 importance of Rivers and lakes to Man.

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher commends the students positively