Question
Antarctica. The name alone conjures a vision of a pristine, icy wilderness
surrounded by silence. For much of human history, this was a fairly accurate portrait of
Antarctica. Now, however, in addition to native inhabitants such as penguins and seals,
scientists from all over the world make their home in the Antarctic. These scientists
conduct research on a range of subjects, including ecosystems, weather patterns, and
the effects of pollution. And surprisingly, increasing numbers of tourists are visiting
Antarctica to mountain climb, camp, or ski. Who governs these activities when so many
nations have a presence on the continent?
Governed by Treaty
2 By the 1940s, seven countries had laid claim to territory in Antarctica. Some of
those territories overlapped, and some countries would not recognize the claims made
by other nations. There was no agreement about who held authority. By the mid-1950s,
however, scientists were eager to use Antarctica as a base for international research.
The research teams who participated in the massive 67-nation scientific project known
as the International Geophysical Year demonstrated how the icy continent could be
shared. Beginning in 1957, they worked together to establish coastal bases and inland
stations in Antarctica. From these bases, they made valuable discoveries about the
atmosphere, oceanography, and many other topics. Their success inspired 12 countries,
including Argentina, Chile, Great Britain, France, and the United States, to create the
Antarctic Treaty in 1959. This was the first document outlining how each nation would
use the continent. The treaty went into effect in 1961.
3 Even though the Antarctic Treaty was negotiated by a dozen countries with differing
interests, the resulting document was simple. It stated that the continent could not be
used for military purposes. The main purpose for being on Antarctica would be to
conduct scientific research. The treaty also stipulated that countries had to provide
advance notice of any Antarctic expeditions. In addition, the signers agreed to meet
periodically to discuss the goals of the treaty. At the time, no one could foresee some of
the changes that would occur over the next 60 years.
Addressing New Issues
4 Since 1959, more countries have joined the agreement, and its objectives have
been expanded. While the initial document focused on research and keeping the peace,
later documents covered the protection of marine life in and around Antarctica.
5 In 1991 another agreement reinforced the original intent of the treaty while adding
that activities such as mining, drilling, and exploration of minerals would be banned
indefinitely. Combined, these additional documents now make up the Antarctic Treaty,
and 54 nations have signed the agreement. But new concerns need to be addressed,
including the increased presence of humans in this once untouched wilderness.
6 In the years since the Antarctic Treaty was signed, activities on the continent have
changed. Science and exploration are still the main pursuits, but advances in
technology have made traveling to the southern continent easier than it once was.
Because of this, tourism in Antarctica has gained in popularity. In the 2018–2019
season, more than 56,000 tourists visited Antarctica.
Texas Education Agency
Student Assessment Division
2024 4
English II
Constructed-Response Scoring Guide
7 At first, most tourism involved sailing along the coast or flying over the land. Cruise
ships sail to Antarctica frequently from November through March. However, tour
operators now offer outings on or near the land, including kayaking, mountain climbing,
and skiing. Some nations hope to profit from expanding such land-based tourism.
Scientists and regulators are evaluating the impact such permanent facilities as visitor
centers, museums, and hotels would have on the environment.
8 In 1991 tour operators formed the International Association of Antarctica Tour
Operators to support responsible travel, but according to Claire Christian of the
Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition, “There aren’t a lot of hard rules governing
tourism. It’s mostly voluntary.” The Antarctic Treaty System is now faced with many
questions about how best to regulate tourism.
The Future of Antarctica
9 Tourism is currently managed by the tour operators from various countries who
shepherd the tourists to and from the continent. However, the Antarctic Treaty system
will be monitoring the effects of tourism. Some areas of concern include the potential
introduction of invasive species and damage to the environment caused by ships
dumping waste in the ocean. Scientists also worry that visitors may disturb penguins,
elephant seals, and other native species. Lastly, tourists who become ill or injured have
little access to medical facilities on this remote continent. The parties to the Antarctic
Treaty have begun discussing how to manage tourism, but reaching an agreement will
take time.
10 Whatever Antarctica’s future holds, there will never be another place on Earth quite
like this continent. Nowhere else on the planet have nations agreed to work together to
maintain peace, support scientific research, and protect the environment. While the
presence of humans on the continent is cause for concern, the Antarctic Treaty affirms
that humans are also working together to protect the continent. That sense of purpose
and collaboration is something to celebrate.
Read the article "Antarctica: Governing the Icy Continent." Based on the information in the article, write a response to the following:
Explain what makes the situation in Antarctica unusual.
Write a well-organized informational composition that uses specific evidence from the article to support your answer.
Create a thesis statement(4square) find evidence to support your thesis and explain your evidence(4square)
surrounded by silence. For much of human history, this was a fairly accurate portrait of
Antarctica. Now, however, in addition to native inhabitants such as penguins and seals,
scientists from all over the world make their home in the Antarctic. These scientists
conduct research on a range of subjects, including ecosystems, weather patterns, and
the effects of pollution. And surprisingly, increasing numbers of tourists are visiting
Antarctica to mountain climb, camp, or ski. Who governs these activities when so many
nations have a presence on the continent?
Governed by Treaty
2 By the 1940s, seven countries had laid claim to territory in Antarctica. Some of
those territories overlapped, and some countries would not recognize the claims made
by other nations. There was no agreement about who held authority. By the mid-1950s,
however, scientists were eager to use Antarctica as a base for international research.
The research teams who participated in the massive 67-nation scientific project known
as the International Geophysical Year demonstrated how the icy continent could be
shared. Beginning in 1957, they worked together to establish coastal bases and inland
stations in Antarctica. From these bases, they made valuable discoveries about the
atmosphere, oceanography, and many other topics. Their success inspired 12 countries,
including Argentina, Chile, Great Britain, France, and the United States, to create the
Antarctic Treaty in 1959. This was the first document outlining how each nation would
use the continent. The treaty went into effect in 1961.
3 Even though the Antarctic Treaty was negotiated by a dozen countries with differing
interests, the resulting document was simple. It stated that the continent could not be
used for military purposes. The main purpose for being on Antarctica would be to
conduct scientific research. The treaty also stipulated that countries had to provide
advance notice of any Antarctic expeditions. In addition, the signers agreed to meet
periodically to discuss the goals of the treaty. At the time, no one could foresee some of
the changes that would occur over the next 60 years.
Addressing New Issues
4 Since 1959, more countries have joined the agreement, and its objectives have
been expanded. While the initial document focused on research and keeping the peace,
later documents covered the protection of marine life in and around Antarctica.
5 In 1991 another agreement reinforced the original intent of the treaty while adding
that activities such as mining, drilling, and exploration of minerals would be banned
indefinitely. Combined, these additional documents now make up the Antarctic Treaty,
and 54 nations have signed the agreement. But new concerns need to be addressed,
including the increased presence of humans in this once untouched wilderness.
6 In the years since the Antarctic Treaty was signed, activities on the continent have
changed. Science and exploration are still the main pursuits, but advances in
technology have made traveling to the southern continent easier than it once was.
Because of this, tourism in Antarctica has gained in popularity. In the 2018–2019
season, more than 56,000 tourists visited Antarctica.
Texas Education Agency
Student Assessment Division
2024 4
English II
Constructed-Response Scoring Guide
7 At first, most tourism involved sailing along the coast or flying over the land. Cruise
ships sail to Antarctica frequently from November through March. However, tour
operators now offer outings on or near the land, including kayaking, mountain climbing,
and skiing. Some nations hope to profit from expanding such land-based tourism.
Scientists and regulators are evaluating the impact such permanent facilities as visitor
centers, museums, and hotels would have on the environment.
8 In 1991 tour operators formed the International Association of Antarctica Tour
Operators to support responsible travel, but according to Claire Christian of the
Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition, “There aren’t a lot of hard rules governing
tourism. It’s mostly voluntary.” The Antarctic Treaty System is now faced with many
questions about how best to regulate tourism.
The Future of Antarctica
9 Tourism is currently managed by the tour operators from various countries who
shepherd the tourists to and from the continent. However, the Antarctic Treaty system
will be monitoring the effects of tourism. Some areas of concern include the potential
introduction of invasive species and damage to the environment caused by ships
dumping waste in the ocean. Scientists also worry that visitors may disturb penguins,
elephant seals, and other native species. Lastly, tourists who become ill or injured have
little access to medical facilities on this remote continent. The parties to the Antarctic
Treaty have begun discussing how to manage tourism, but reaching an agreement will
take time.
10 Whatever Antarctica’s future holds, there will never be another place on Earth quite
like this continent. Nowhere else on the planet have nations agreed to work together to
maintain peace, support scientific research, and protect the environment. While the
presence of humans on the continent is cause for concern, the Antarctic Treaty affirms
that humans are also working together to protect the continent. That sense of purpose
and collaboration is something to celebrate.
Read the article "Antarctica: Governing the Icy Continent." Based on the information in the article, write a response to the following:
Explain what makes the situation in Antarctica unusual.
Write a well-organized informational composition that uses specific evidence from the article to support your answer.
Create a thesis statement(4square) find evidence to support your thesis and explain your evidence(4square)
Answers
GPT-4o mini
### Thesis Statement
The situation in Antarctica is unusual because it is governed by a unique international treaty that prioritizes peaceful scientific collaboration and environmental protection, transcending national claims and militarization, which distinguishes it from other regions of the world.
### Evidence and Explanation
1. **Evidence**: The Antarctic Treaty, established in 1959 and effective from 1961, explicitly states that Antarctica cannot be used for military purposes and is meant for scientific research. This agreement was initially signed by 12 countries and has since expanded to 54 nations, all working together to maintain the continent as a neutral zone.
**Explanation**: This treaty creates a legal framework that is unlike any other in the world, where nations typically compete for territorial and resource control. Instead, the Antarctic Treaty fosters a spirit of collaboration among diverse countries, which is rare in international relations. Rather than disputes over territory, the focus remains on peaceful scientific exploration, creating an atmosphere conducive to global cooperation.
2. **Evidence**: The treaty not only emphasizes scientific research but has also adapted to contemporary issues by banning activities like mining and drilling since 1991, thereby reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship.
**Explanation**: The evolving nature of the treaty shows its responsiveness to new challenges posed by human activities, particularly in light of increasing tourism and environmental concerns. By prohibiting resource extraction, the treaty safeguards the ecological integrity of Antarctica, illustrating a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes the planet's health over economic gain, which contrasts sharply with many other regions where exploitation often takes precedence over conservation.
3. **Evidence**: The rise of tourism in Antarctica has prompted discussions about the impacts of human presence, including concerns about invasive species and environmental damage from waste disposal.
**Explanation**: The fact that tourism is managed by an international consortium of tour operators, rather than individual nations, exemplifies the collaborative effort to balance tourism with environmental protection. This is unusual as tourism regulations are often dictated by individual countries based on their interests. Instead, in Antarctica, the collective responsibility underscores the importance of sustaining a delicate ecosystem while allowing for human exploration, highlighting the continent’s unique governance model.
4. **Evidence**: According to Claire Christian of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition, tourism governance is primarily voluntary, indicating a lack of stringent regulations.
**Explanation**: This situation illustrates the need for continued dialogue among treaty parties to develop effective governance mechanisms that can handle the increasing complexity of human activities on the continent. The unusual principle of voluntary regulation in tourism points to the challenge of maintaining the treaty's original intent in a rapidly changing world, allowing for room to develop new collaborative frameworks, which is not typically seen in other regions.
### Conclusion
Overall, Antarctica stands apart from other regions due to its distinct governance structure centered on international cooperation, environmental preservation, and scientific inquiry. The continued evolution of the Antarctic Treaty reflects the unique geopolitical landscape of this icy continent, where nations join forces to safeguard the environment while navigating the complexities arising from human presence.
The situation in Antarctica is unusual because it is governed by a unique international treaty that prioritizes peaceful scientific collaboration and environmental protection, transcending national claims and militarization, which distinguishes it from other regions of the world.
### Evidence and Explanation
1. **Evidence**: The Antarctic Treaty, established in 1959 and effective from 1961, explicitly states that Antarctica cannot be used for military purposes and is meant for scientific research. This agreement was initially signed by 12 countries and has since expanded to 54 nations, all working together to maintain the continent as a neutral zone.
**Explanation**: This treaty creates a legal framework that is unlike any other in the world, where nations typically compete for territorial and resource control. Instead, the Antarctic Treaty fosters a spirit of collaboration among diverse countries, which is rare in international relations. Rather than disputes over territory, the focus remains on peaceful scientific exploration, creating an atmosphere conducive to global cooperation.
2. **Evidence**: The treaty not only emphasizes scientific research but has also adapted to contemporary issues by banning activities like mining and drilling since 1991, thereby reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship.
**Explanation**: The evolving nature of the treaty shows its responsiveness to new challenges posed by human activities, particularly in light of increasing tourism and environmental concerns. By prohibiting resource extraction, the treaty safeguards the ecological integrity of Antarctica, illustrating a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes the planet's health over economic gain, which contrasts sharply with many other regions where exploitation often takes precedence over conservation.
3. **Evidence**: The rise of tourism in Antarctica has prompted discussions about the impacts of human presence, including concerns about invasive species and environmental damage from waste disposal.
**Explanation**: The fact that tourism is managed by an international consortium of tour operators, rather than individual nations, exemplifies the collaborative effort to balance tourism with environmental protection. This is unusual as tourism regulations are often dictated by individual countries based on their interests. Instead, in Antarctica, the collective responsibility underscores the importance of sustaining a delicate ecosystem while allowing for human exploration, highlighting the continent’s unique governance model.
4. **Evidence**: According to Claire Christian of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition, tourism governance is primarily voluntary, indicating a lack of stringent regulations.
**Explanation**: This situation illustrates the need for continued dialogue among treaty parties to develop effective governance mechanisms that can handle the increasing complexity of human activities on the continent. The unusual principle of voluntary regulation in tourism points to the challenge of maintaining the treaty's original intent in a rapidly changing world, allowing for room to develop new collaborative frameworks, which is not typically seen in other regions.
### Conclusion
Overall, Antarctica stands apart from other regions due to its distinct governance structure centered on international cooperation, environmental preservation, and scientific inquiry. The continued evolution of the Antarctic Treaty reflects the unique geopolitical landscape of this icy continent, where nations join forces to safeguard the environment while navigating the complexities arising from human presence.