Through regional case studies, this unit introduces students to issues of human-environmental interaction; and includes an introduction and standards alignment page section. In particular, these case studies address issues of human adaptation and modification of the environment, human survival in extreme climates, limited water resources, fossil fuels, renewable energy, and urbanization's impact on the environment. Each case study includes activities to build social studies skills, primary and secondary sources, goals, objectives, and means of assessment. Case studies related to the Middle East cover the Aswan Dam of Egypt, the Southeastern Anatolia project of Turkey, and the Zaballeen of Egypt.