CKHG Unit 2: Ancient China
Focus:
This unit introduces students to the civilization of ancient China, first emphasizing China’s development along two major rivers—the Huang He and the Yangtze River. They will discover that these two rivers enriched the farmland along their banks and provided important transportation routes. In addition, students will learn that ancient Chinese connected these two prominent rivers by creating the longest constructed waterway in the world, the Grand Canal, used to transport food to the cities of ancient China.
Students will learn that China became much larger under Emperor Qin, the first emperor of China, who defeated rulers of many kingdoms and ordered that the Great Wall be built to keep out nomads and other invaders. They will also find out that Emperor Qin decided that the Chinese needed to have one style of writing to unite the people. His decision led to what is now the oldest written language, and students will discover how it differs from our alphabet.
In addition, students will explore the teachings of Confucius, along with the ancient Chinese inventions of paper, woodblock printing, gunpowder, fireworks, porcelain, and silk. Students will also learn about the significance of family and ancestors to the Chinese people since ancient times and about the most important of all Chinese celebrations, the Chinese New Year.
Number of Lessons: 6
Instruction Time:
We have intentionally left the pacing and timing needed to teach the content presented in the Teacher Guide and Student Book very flexible. Teachers can choose how much they read aloud and discuss in a single instructional period, as well as how often each week they use the CKHG materials.
Additional Search Terms:
social studies • geography • civics • map skills • nonfiction • informational text • Huang He • Yangtze River • civilization • archaeologists • nomads • Great Wall • Grand Canal • Confucius • woodblock printing • paper • porcelain • gunpowder • fireworks • Chinese New Year • ancestors • silk • caterpillars • cocoons • parade • Emperor Shihuangdi Qin
