THE RACE TO REACH THE GEOGRAPHICAL SOUTH AND NORTH POLES

History abounds with stories of epic journeys and feats of endurance by individuals often motivated by the possibility of being the first to achieve a specific goal. The geographical poles provided one such focus. It also provided challenges of environment and epic journeys. This is a unit based on the famous race between the Norwegian polar explorer Roald Amundsen and the British polar explorer Scott to reach the South geographical pole. It is a story of achievement and tragedy. The contrasting geographical nature of the North Pole required a different approach. This is a story about a balloon flight across the geographical North Pole. Come to the small settlement of Ny Alesund in the Svalbard Islands north of the Arctic Circle. Discover the commemorative plaques of the balloon flight and recognise the role of Roald Amundsen in the first flight over the North Pole. This is polar exploration worthy of recognition. There is an attachment with this unit which will provide a summary of understanding. It's about a cold environment; a challenge and a two tragic endings for polar explorers.