Social changes can be affected by a variety of influences, including exposure to other cultures, available resources, and environmental conditions. Some changes may impact the sustainability of a society and the environment on which it depends.

Students view a photo essay, "Mongolia’s Nomads," by Taylor Weidman, which highlights Mongolian pastoral herders, one of the world’s last remaining nomadic cultures.

In this lesson, students explore the concept of cultural sustainability and the nomadic way of life of present-day Mongolian pastoral herders. Reflective writing prompts are also included for students to demonstrate their understanding of the story.