Lesson: Purifying the Goddess

This lesson introduces the impact of humans along one of the great rivers of the world, the Ganges of India. The changes in the river as a result of the changing landscape and from human impact from both irrigation and pollution are documented.

Warm Up: Ganges Pollution Video

Purifying the Goddess Vocabulary

Assignment - Read the introduction to Purifying the Ganges (specifically the first 5 paragraphs)

 *note- The rest of the article discusses the difficulties of politics, religion and the caste system of India and how these factors influence both water use and efforts at environmental remediation. It is totally worth reading.

A. Complete annotated map assignment

B. Respond to these prompts:

1. Summarize the journey of the Ganges and the general impact of humans on it in a brief paragraph.

2. Refineries, distilleries and tanneries all use tremendous amounts of water and produce dangerous wastes. Why do think these businesses are allowed to continue to operate and pollute the river?

3. Many Hindu feel that bathing in the Ganges and having one's ashes dumped into the river are part of their religious heritage, yet it is filled with sewage and trash. What inconsistent behaviors do Americans exhibit that contradict our society's engagement with the environment? (How do we screw up nature, yet say we respect/honor it?)

C. Research the "10 most polluted rivers in the world." What cities, countries are represented/responsible?

Extension Activities:

Tigers of the Sundabarn - npr