Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the impact of horses on the Earth's ecosystems and how they have shaped human history.

Materials and Prep

Materials: Computer with internet access

Prep: None

Activities

1. Research the history of horses and their domestication. Look for information on how horses have impacted human societies and the environment.

2. Create a presentation or infographic about the environmental impact of horses, including their role in grassland ecosystems and their influence on transportation and agriculture.

3. Watch a documentary or video about the relationship between horses and the Earth's ecosystems, and take notes on the key points.

Eighth Grade Talking Points

• Horses have been domesticated for thousands of years and have played a significant role in human history. You can say, "Horses were first domesticated around 4000 BC, and their use has influenced the development of civilizations around the world."
• Horses have had a major impact on shaping the Earth's ecosystems, particularly in grassland regions. You can explain, "Horses are herbivores that graze on grasses, and their grazing behavior has shaped the structure and composition of grassland communities."
• The use of horses for transportation and agriculture has significantly affected human societies and the environment. You can mention, "Horses were essential for transportation and agricultural work before the invention of modern machinery, and their presence had both positive and negative impacts on the environment."