After floating through the hilly Piedmont, you arrive at the Sandhills of South Carolina. Between 55 and 100 million years ago the sea level was higher and the coast was farther inland. Marine fossils and beach sand remain as evidence of the ancient beachfront in the Sandhills. Over millions of years, the sea level dropped and by 10,000 BCE humans occupied the central area of the state.
For Educators
Students engage in a scientific mystery that they solve by exploring interactive panoramic images of Columbia, SC and picking up clues along the way. Along the waterways they study the history, geography, ecology, plants and wildlife of this region and also learn how rivers were instrumental in forming this historic city.
Standards
- Emphasis is on changes in climate that influence past, modern, or future human activities. Examples of key changes in climate that can affect populations or drive mass migrations could include changes to sea level, regional patterns of temperature and precipitation, and the types of crops and livestock that can be raised.
- Ecosystem Dynamics
- H.B.6 The student will demonstrate an understanding that ecosystems are complex, interactive systems that include both biological communities and physical components of the environment.
- 3-1 The student will demonstrate an understanding of places and regions in South Carolina and the role of human systems in the state.