HUMAN ENVIRONMENT INTERACTION

Curriculum Standard:  SS:GE:12:12.2   “Students will investigate...relationships between humans and the physical environment. www.ed.state.nh.us/frameworks

Melemchi is a village located in Yolmo Valley, a three day walk northeast from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Yolmo is fairly new, having been settled during the 18th century. Neither the valley nor the village of Melemchi are as isolated as one would expect of a village located at 2600 meters. The majority of the villagers earn their living by herding zomo, a cow-yak hybrid. Milk from the zomo is used not only for milk but also to produce butter and yogurt. As you will see in the video, they were remarkably self-sufficient.

However, like the rest of Nepal, things are changing. We will watch the video, "Himalayan Herders" in its entirety. However, before we view the update to the story, we will discuss the term "circular migration" and predict the changes that might be happening in Melemchi.

Assignment: In your notebook, make a T-chart. You will label it "Comparison-Melemchi, Yolmo Valley and Moultonborough, New Hampshire. Pay particular attention to the types of clothing, shelter, transportation, food, games, and occupations. Write down items as you notice them during the video. When you are finished viewing, write the New Hampshire equivalent of what you have seen. We will discuss your T-charts and make a master one on the board.

Bridge to Melemchi http://www.melemchi.com/river.htm

Riverside Lodge, Melemchi (Tea and/or Lodging) http://www.melemchi.com/river.htm