Worksheet: Comparing and Contrasting the Geography of the New England Colonies and the Middle Colonies

Instructions: Read the descriptions of the geography of the New England Colonies and the Middle Colonies. Use the information provided to compare and contrast the two regions in the chart below.

Geography of the New England Colonies: - Located in the northeastern part of the present-day United States. - Characterized by rocky soil, hilly terrain, and dense forests. - Short growing season due to cold winters and rocky soil. - Abundance of natural resources such as fish, whales, and timber. - Limited farming opportunities, so the economy relied on fishing, shipbuilding, and trade. - Access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous harbors facilitated trade and shipping.

Geography of the Middle Colonies: - Located in the middle region of the present-day United States. - Diverse geography including fertile soil, rolling hills, and valleys. - Longer growing season compared to New England due to milder climate and fertile soil. - Rich agricultural land allowed for the cultivation of crops such as wheat, corn, and barley. - Rivers and waterways provided transportation and trade routes. - Access to the Atlantic Ocean through major ports like New York City and Philadelphia.

Comparison Chart:

Aspect	New England Colonies	Middle Colonies
Location	Northeastern US	Middle US
Terrain	Rocky and hilly	Diverse
Growing Season	Short	Longer
Agriculture	Limited	Rich
Natural Resources	Fish, whales, timber	Fertile soil
Economic Activities	Fishing, shipbuilding, trade	Agriculture, trade
Access to Atlantic Ocean	Yes	Yes
Major Ports	Numerous	New York City, Philadelphia

Questions:

1. Which region had a shorter growing season?
2. Which region had more diverse geography?
3. Which region relied more on fishing and shipbuilding for its economy?
4. Which region had more fertile soil for agriculture?
5. Which region had major ports like New York City and Philadelphia?
6. Which region had more natural resources like fish, whales, and timber?
7. Which region had a more limited farming opportunity?

Answers:

1. New England Colonies
2. Middle Colonies
3. New England Colonies
4. Middle Colonies
5. Middle Colonies
6. New England Colonies
7. New England Colonies