The Big Idea Activity

What makes a civilization?

Debate

  California Standard 6.1  Students describe what is known through archaeological studies of the early physical and cultural development of humankind from the Paleolithic era to the agricultural revolution. California Standard 6.5  Students analyze the geographic, political, economic, religious, and social structures of the early civilizations of India.                                                                                                        California Standard 6.6  Students analyze the geographic, political, economic, religious, and social structures of the early civilizations of China.

Students working on the Activity

Teaching Tips

Students answer the question, "What makes a civilization?," citing the civilizations of this chapter. Sources for additional information on these civilizations and teaching ideas:

Additional Links

These Web sites provide information about many aspects of history, culture, architecture, religion, philosophy, and art.

Hinduism and Buddhism and their effect on the development of Indian society

Extensive links to Chinese history, philosophy, and culture


Asoka

  California Standard 6.5.6  Describe the growth of the Maurya empire and the political and moral achievements of the emperor Asoka.

Buddha

Additional Links

Asoka and humanitarian warfare


Qin Shi Huangdi

  California Standard 6.6.5  List the policies and achievements of the emperor Shi Huangdi in unifying northern China under the Qin Dynasty.

Map China

Teaching Tips

Investigate the concept of the terracotta army as a primary source of information about life during the Qin dynasty. What can be learned from the details of the soldiers and their gear?

Additional Links

Ideas for teaching about Qin Shi Huangdi, within the context of ancient Chinese society
Lesson Plans
Historical Investigation

Lesson plan on the terra cotta armies recovered from Qin Shi Huangdi's mausoleum

 

The Great Wall of China

  California Standard 6.6  Students analyze the geographic, political, economic, religious, and social structures of the early civilizations of China.

Great Wall of China

Additional Links


Lesson plan on the Wall of China