Students study the geography of ancient China by reading some engaging facts. Then, they explore its geographical features, such as rivers, mountains, deserts, climate, and population. Next, they describe and explain the natural barriers that kept China isolated for centuries. Finally, they learn about the Great Wall of China in text and visuals, and they write a paragraph about the wall from the point of view of an ancient guard there.
Students are introduced to the lesson purpose and objectives, view images of Chinese landscapes such as the Bayan Bulak Grasslands, and read an overview of China’s long history and its geography. They then read Amazing Facts about Geography of China and examine a globe map to locate China. After reading, they post to a collaborative wall, recalling one fact about China’s geography from memory and explaining why that fact interests them.
Teacher MovesReview the lesson objectives and frame the experience as an introduction to China’s geography and its influence on civilization. After students post to the wall, encourage them to share overall impressions of China that emerge from the specific facts they remembered.
Students view an image of rice terraces and read Ancient China Geography and China to study in depth the rivers, mountains, deserts, climate, population, and economy of ancient China. As they read, they complete a graphic organizer by taking notes in categories for rivers, mountains, deserts, climate, people, and economy. They answer two multiple-choice questions about a major Chinese river and the most common occupation in China. Finally, using a relief map of China, they label at least one river, one mountain range, one desert, and one agricultural area.
Teacher MovesHighlight how each geographic feature connects to human activities as students read and take notes. Monitor completion of the organizer, quick-check understanding with the multiple-choice questions, and review students’ labeled maps to reinforce accurate identification of key physical features. Suggest that advanced students explore additional resources in the Student Pack.
Students examine an image of the Li River near Yangshuo, then read Geography of China, Mountains, and Deserts to learn how China’s mountains, deserts, and seas created natural barriers that contributed to the civilization’s long isolation and unique development. They record notes in a graphic organizer about China’s natural barriers, describing the roles of mountains, deserts, and seas. Next, they respond on a class wall to a prompt explaining, with evidence, how being isolated during its early growth might affect a civilization.
Teacher MovesUse student notes and wall responses to surface ideas about the benefits and drawbacks of geographic isolation, referencing examples such as protection from attack, development of unique cultural practices, and limited exchange with other civilizations. Draw attention to how specific natural barriers shaped China’s early history.
Students view an image of the Great Wall of China today and read text introducing the wall. They then read The Great Wall of China and watch the video What Makes the Great Wall of China So Extraordinary to learn about the wall’s purpose, construction, and historical significance. Drawing on what they have learned, they write a letter on a collaborative wall from the point of view of an ancient Chinese soldier stationed at the Great Wall, describing what they see and what life is like there. Finally, they review classmates’ letters and respond to at least two with a question or positive comment.
Teacher MovesPrompt students to connect details from the text and video to their letters, emphasizing how the Great Wall relates to China’s geography and defense. Encourage students to provide specific, historically grounded feedback and questions when responding to peers’ posts.
Students complete the exit quiz by answering all the questions.
Teacher MovesFacilitate the assessment and use student data to evaluate understanding, address misconceptions, and identify areas for growth.
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