NATURAL AND HISTORIC BUILT ENVIRONMENTS Notes, Quizzes & Revision
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NATURAL AND HISTORIC BUILT ENVIRONMENTS
What are they?
Natural environment
The natural environment includes landforms, plants, animals, water and climate that formed without human building. In Kenya this includes places such as:
- Mount Kenya and the Aberdares
- Rift Valley lakes (e.g., Lake Turkana, Lake Victoria)
- Kakamega Forest and savannahs (Tsavo, Amboseli)
Historic built environment
Historic built environments are buildings, walls, towns and structures made by people long ago that have historical or cultural value. Kenyan examples:
- Fort Jesus (Mombasa)
- Lamu Old Town (Lamu)
- Gedi Ruins (Kilifi)
- Thimlich Ohinga (western Kenya)
Key features and materials
- Formed by wind, water, tectonic forces, living organisms
- Support biodiversity (plants, animals)
- Provide resources and services (water, climate regulation, soil)
- Made of local materials: coral stone, carved timber, stone masonry, mud and thatch
- Show past building styles and ways of life
- Often used for defence, trade, religion and homes
How they differ (simple comparison)
Forms by nature; living systems; change slowly or by natural events.
Made by people; shows culture and history; preserved for heritage and learning.
Why they matter to Kenya
- Cultural identity: Historic sites teach about past communities, trade on the coast and traditional life.
- Tourism & economy: Visitors come to Fort Jesus, Lamu and natural parks, supporting jobs and local business.
- Ecosystem services: Forests and wetlands provide water, food, and climate benefits.
- Learning & research: Scientists and students study nature and old buildings to learn about history and ecology.
Human impact and caring for these places
People change natural places when they clear land, build towns or farm. This can cause loss of habitats and damage to historic sites if not managed carefully.
How to protect them (simple actions)
- Learn local history and follow rules at historic sites (do not remove or damage stones).
- Avoid littering and use marked paths in natural parks.
- Support community conservation groups and local guides.
- Plant trees and conserve water to protect habitats.
- Report vandalism or dangerous changes to local authorities (e.g., National Museums of Kenya, Kenya Wildlife Service).
Short classroom activities and questions
Try these:
- Make a two-column poster: "Natural" and "Historic built" with Kenyan examples and small drawings.
- Discuss: How does tourism help and harm a historic site? Suggest one solution.
- Field observation: Visit a local park or a nearby old building. Note signs of care or damage and suggest one improvement.
Quick quiz (oral):
- Name two natural places in Kenya and one historic built site.
- Why should we protect forests and old buildings?
- Give one way you and your family can help protect a local site.