A map of population density in South and Southeast Asia. Darker areas have higher population density. Higher population density areas are Indonesia, the coast of Vietnam, the northern border of India, the eastern coast of India, and Bangladesh. The higher populations are along coastlines.

Map by e2020

Using complete sentences, describe three ways in which the settlement patterns in South Asia resemble settlement patterns found in most regions around the world. Consider what resources people settle near and why they choose to live by these resources.

The settlement patterns in South Asia are similar to settlement patterns seen around the world. People in South Asia often live near water. This is common around the world because people need freshwater to survive. People who live near freshwater often have drinking water, an increased food supply, and fertile soil for farming. People in South Asia also tend to live near fertile soil. They use fertile soil to start farms, grow plants, and feed animals. Fertile soil can provide people with all the necessary elements to live self-sufficiently. The majority of people living in South Asia also live near natural resources, because they can use these resource for their own survival needs or for economic growth. Natural resources can be sold or traded and provide jobs.