Lesson Plan

• Describe how population density is calculated.
• Explain the main causes and effects of overpopulation.
• Explain the main causes and effects of underpopulation.
• Compare the social, economic and environmental challenges of over‑ and under‑populated areas.
• Analyse a case study to suggest appropriate policy responses.

• Projector and screen
• World‑density map (digital or printed)
• Handout with comparative table (over vs. under population)
• Worksheet for group activity
• Case‑study excerpts (Tokyo & Rural Scotland)
• Markers and sticky notes
• Calculator (optional)

Show a colour‑coded world map and ask students to point out regions they think are very crowded or very sparse. Briefly recall the formula for population density and link it to everyday examples (city vs. countryside). Explain that today they will identify why some places become over‑ or under‑populated and what those extremes mean for people and the environment.

1. Do‑Now (5'): Quick write – “If a city has 2 million people in 100 km², what is its density?” Students share answers; teacher confirms formula D = P/A.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Define population density, present causes of overpopulation (high births, low deaths, immigration, urban pull, policies) and underpopulation (low births, emigration, high mortality, ageing, geographic limits). Use the projector and the world map.
3. Group Activity – Comparative Table (15'): In pairs, students fill a worksheet comparing over‑ and under‑population (causes, effects, examples). They refer to the handout table.
4. Case‑Study Analysis (10'): Small groups examine the Tokyo and Rural Scotland snapshots, identify key challenges and suggest one policy for each.
5. Formative Check (5'): Whole‑class share of findings; exit ticket on a sticky note: “One new thing I learned about over‑ or under‑population.”

Summarise that population density is a simple ratio but its extremes drive very different social, economic and environmental issues. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign homework: research the current population trend of their local area and predict one possible impact.