The continent of North America stretches from the Arctic Circle in the north, to the tropics in the south. There are 23 countries on the continent, as well as 22 dependent territories (that are governed by other countries). To the west is the Pacific Ocean, and to the east is the Atlantic.
Scientists believe that the continent has been inhabited by humans for at least 20,000 years.
Teach your children about North America using our handy topic guide!
Teaching Ideas
- On an outline map of North America, mark the countries that are found there. Use an atlas, Google Maps, or this interactive map to help you.
- Challenge your children to correctly identify the countries in North America on this interactive map.
- Plot a route between cities in two different North American countries. What would you see on the way? How could you travel between them?
- Write a story set in a North American country.
Resources
- This scheme of work from the Royal Geography Society focuses on the United States of America.
- This outline map of the continent is useful for map work.
North America Facts
- North America is the third largest continent in the world, by area. It includes Central America.
- The largest country, by area, in North America is Canada: the smallest is St Kitts and Nevis, a Caribbean island nation.
- The southernmost country in North America is Panama.
- Greenland is part of North America, and is the largest island on Earth that is not a continent.
- The largest city on the continent of North America is Mexico City, with about 21 million people living in the city and surrounding areas.
Videos
North America
This video gives a good overview of the geography of the continent.
Running time: 3:29
North American Animals
A short video for younger children showing some of the animals native to North America.
Running time: 2:32
How North America got its shape
Older children will enjoy this fascinating video that shows how the continent of North America was formed.
Running time: 4:57
Countries of North America, their Capital Cities and their Flags
Learn the capital cities and flags of the countries of North America.
Running time: 7:53
Seven Continents Song
This song will help children identify the seven continents.
Running time: 2:02
Books
Alma and How She Got Her Name
Alma thinks she has too many names, until her daddy tells her how she came by them.
The Year I Flew Away
Find out what happens when Gabrielle moves from Haiti to Brooklyn.
Blue Birds
A historical novel for older children about the settlement at Roanoke.
North and South America Study Book
This book is full of facts and information about the Americas, along with activities to complete.
Bird Guide of North America
Learn about the birds of North America in this bright and engaging book.
What's Where on Earth Atlas
A beautiful world atlas that gives a different viewpoint from a traditional atlas.
Links
- Find out about the European explorers who travelled to America in this great Google Earth experience.
- Learn about the continent on this DKFindout! page.
- Test your knowledge of the capitals of North America with this quiz.
Are you teaching your children about other topics? Explore our full collection of guides!
