Central America: Panama

Contributor: Jodi Powell. Lesson ID: 10802

Where can you see the sun rise over the Pacific and set over the Atlantic? Who was the man who could make dirt fly? Learn all about Panama; it's more than just a canal!

categories

World, World

subject
Geography
learning style
Auditory, Visual
personality style
Otter, Golden Retriever
Grade Level
Middle School (6-8)
Lesson Type
Dig Deeper

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio: Image - Button Play
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  • Did you know Panama is the only place in the world where you can see the sunrise on the Pacific and set on the Atlantic?

At its narrowest distance, only 80 kilometers of land separates the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans.

If you don't know much about Panama, I bet you've heard of the Panama Canal, the man-made wonder that changed the world!

Let's learn more about this small country and the big man-made feat that occurred there!

You've finally arrived at the last country in your journey through Central America — Panama!

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This lesson will primarily focus on the Panama Canal, but first, learn a few of the basics about the country of Panama.

Now, you're ready to dive into the heart of the lesson!

The Panama Canal

Panama Canal

The building of the Panama Canal was an accomplishment many previously viewed as impossible.

The Panama Canal shortened the journey from the Atlantic to the Pacific by 13,000 miles and elevated the United States to world superpower status for the first time.

map showing the Route around South America compared to the route through the Panama Canal

Set aside one hour and twenty-three minutes for the next portion of this lesson, and maybe grab a bowl of popcorn, too.

While viewing the full documentary video below, take detailed notes to help you write an essay at the end of the lesson. Write down important facts such as names, events, and dates.

Image - Video When you have finished the video, move on to the Got It? section.

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