Topic Overview

Settlements

Main Concept/Theme

A settlement is a place where people live and interact through activities such as agriculture, trade, and social functions. The study of settlements includes understanding their types, characteristics, and how they develop over time.

Key Learning Objectives

• Understand the different types of settlements.
• Learn the characteristics of urban and rural settlements.
• Recognize the factors that influence the location and development of settlements.
• Identify the functions of various settlements.

Key Terms and Definitions

• Settlement: A place where people establish a community to live and work.
• Urban Settlements: Settlements characterized by high population density and vast human features in comparison to areas surrounding it.
• Rural Settlements: Settlements located in the countryside with low population density and large open areas.
• Population Density: The number of people living per unit of area (e.g., per square kilometer).
• Infrastructure: The fundamental facilities and systems serving a country, city, or area, including transportation, communication, utilities, and public services.
• Urbanization: The process whereby rural areas become urbanized as a result of development and economic growth.

Main Content Sections

Types of Settlements

1. Urban Settlements

• Characteristics:
• High population density.
• Advanced infrastructure like roads, buildings, and utilities.
• Diverse economic activities including industry, services, and trade.
• Examples include cities and towns.

2. Rural Settlements

• Characteristics:
• Low population density.
• Limited infrastructure, often agricultural-based.
• Communities are spread out with larger areas of open space.
• Examples include villages and farms.

Factors Influencing Settlements

1. Physical Factors

• Water Supply: Access to fresh water is crucial for drinking, agriculture, and industry.
• Relief: Flat plains are easier to build on and are often preferred for agricultural activities, while mountainous areas may be less accessible.
• Climate: Settlements tend to develop in areas with favorable climatic conditions (moderate temperatures, adequate rainfall).

2. Human Factors

• Economic Activities: Availability of jobs, trade opportunities, and resources (minerals, forests) influence settlements.
• Infrastructure: Good transport and communication networks support settlement growth.
• Government Policies: Urban planning, zoning laws, and economic incentives can direct where settlements develop.

Functions of Settlements

1. Residential

• Primary function of most settlements is to provide housing.

2. Commercial

• Businesses and markets for trade and commerce.

3. Industrial

• Areas with factories and production facilities.

4. Administrative

• Government offices and administrative buildings.

5. Recreational

• Parks, sports facilities, and leisure areas.

6. Educational

• Schools, colleges, and universities.

Example

Urbanization in Johannesburg

Johannesburg is an example of rapid urbanization. Factors contributing to its growth include:
– Economic Activities: Rich mineral resources, particularly gold, which led to the establishment of mines and industries.
– Infrastructure Development: Highways, hospitals, schools, and residential areas.
– Migration: People moved from rural areas for better opportunities.

Rural Settlement: The Case of Nqabara

Nqabara, an example of a rural settlement in the Eastern Cape:
– Agriculture: Main economic activity is farming.
– Infrastructure: Basic with few schools, clinics, and limited transport.
– Population: Mainly families dependent on agriculture and traditional livelihoods.

Summary

Settlements are places where people live, work, and interact. They can be classified into urban and rural settlements, each with distinct characteristics. Several physical and human factors influence the location and growth of settlements. Understanding these factors helps us comprehend how and why communities develop in certain areas.

Self-Assessment Questions

1. Multiple Choice
2. What is the primary difference between urban and rural settlements?
   • a) Population density
   • b) Climate
   • c) Food habits
   • d) None of the above
3. Open-Ended
4. Describe three physical factors and three human factors that influence the location of settlements.
5. Explain the importance of infrastructure in the development of urban settlements.

Connections to Other Topics/Subjects

• Geography: Connects to physical geography by understanding how natural landscapes influence human activities.
• Economics: Related to the study of trade, industry, and economic development.
• History: Understanding historical development of settlements helps in knowing current urban and rural dynamics.
• Environmental Science: Examines the impact of human settlements on the environment and vice versa.

Encouraging students to explore the local geography and history of settlements around them can make the topic more relatable and enriching.