How do mountain communities grow food on steep hillsides?
AThey do not grow any food — they import everything
BThey flatten the entire mountain
CThey build terraces — flat steps carved into the hillside
DThey only grow food at the very top of the mountain
Mountain communities build terraces — flat, step-like levels carved into the hillside. Each terrace is a small, level field where crops can be planted. Terracing prevents soil from washing down the steep slopes and creates usable farmland where flat ground is scarce.
Question 2 True / False
Mountain communities exist on every continent.
TTrue
FFalse
Answer: True
People live in mountain communities all over the world — in the Alps of Europe, the Andes of South America, the Himalayas of Asia, the Rockies of North America, the mountains of East Africa, and many more places. Wherever there are mountains, people have found ways to build communities.
Question 3 Short Answer
What is one way that mountain homes are different from homes in flat areas?
Think about your answer, then reveal below.
Model answer: Mountain homes often have steep, slanted roofs so heavy snow can slide off instead of piling up and collapsing the roof. They may be built with thick stone or wood walls for insulation against the cold. Some are built into the hillside itself for protection from wind.
A good answer describes a specific building feature (steep roof, thick walls, stone construction) and explains how it helps people deal with mountain conditions like heavy snow, cold temperatures, or strong winds.
Question 4 Multiple Choice
Why is the air thinner at high altitudes in the mountains?
ABecause the mountains block the air
BBecause there is less atmosphere above you, so the air has less pressure and less oxygen
CBecause the wind blows all the air away
DThe air in the mountains is not actually thinner
At higher elevations, there is less atmosphere above you, which means the air pressure is lower and each breath contains less oxygen. People who live at high altitudes for generations have adapted to this thinner air, but visitors from lower elevations often feel out of breath at first.
Question 5 True / False
The only thing people do in mountain communities is ski.
TTrue
FFalse
Answer: False
Mountain communities are full of diverse activities beyond skiing. People farm on terraces, raise animals like goats, sheep, and llamas, mine minerals, guide tourists on hikes, run businesses, and carry on rich cultural traditions. Skiing is just one small part of mountain life, and mainly in certain regions.