6.3 - Early River Valley Civilizations
From EngageNY
Complex societies and civilizations developed in the Eastern Hemisphere. Although these complex societies and civilizations have certain defining characteristics in common, each is also known for unique cultural achievements and contributions. Early human communities in the Eastern Hemisphere adapted to and modified the physical environment.6.3a Humans living together in settlements develop shared customs, beliefs, ideas, and languages that give identity to the group.
6.3b Complex societies and civilizations share the common characteristics of religion, job specialization, cities, government, language/record keeping system, technology, and social hierarchy. People in Mesopotamia, the Yellow River valley, the Indus River valley, and the Nile River valley developed complex societies and civilizations.
- Students will explore at least two river valley societies and civilizations: one in the Middle East (Mesopotamia or Nile river valley), one in South Asia (Indus River valley), or one in East Asia (Yellow River valley) by examining archaeological and historical evidence to compare and contrast characteristics of these complex societies and civilizations.
- Students will explore how the selected complex societies and civilizations adapted to and modified their environment to meet their basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter.
- Students will compare and contrast the gender roles, access to wealth and power, and division of labor within the political and social structures of the selected river valley societies and civilizations.
- Students will examine the unique achievements of each of the selected complex societies and civilizations that served as lasting contributions.
Supporting Materials
 |
Amun-ReEveryone knows of the pyramids on the Nile - eternal monuments of a powerful and beautiful culture, that can still take our breath away. |
 |
Ancient Chinese CivilizationAn illustrated introduction to the civilization of ancient China centered around several of its key myths. Covers China's religion, daily life, inventions, military, trade, and arts. |
|
|
Ancient Egyptian CultureAncient Egypt is known in the popular imagination for its hieroglyphics, jewelry, and dazzling treasure-filled tombs. Readers will learn how these products were made through engaging, accessible text. In addition, this book explores the rich culture that produced these objects and will explain... |
|
|
Ancient Egyptian Daily LifeMany books about Ancient Egypt focus on the lives of the pharaohs, however this unique book instead paints a picture of daily life for more ordinary citizens. Readers will learn about how people were educated, what role women played in society, and what family life was like--including facts... |
|
|
Ancient Egyptian GeographyThe Nile River was crucial to the growth of Egyptian civilization. Maps help illustrate the contrast between river and desert, and engaging text explains how geography influenced Egypt's settlement and migration patterns and even its religion. This book addresses people's relationship to their... |
|
|
Ancient Egyptian GovernmentAncient Egypt was not a great empire at its outset, yet over time it became united under rulers called pharaohs. Each pharaoh was believed to be an incarnation of the god Horus. Readers will learn how this tie between Ancient Egypt's government and its religion helped forge an empire. They will... |
|
|
Ancient Egyptian TechnologyEgypt's pyramids are a testament to the technology used by this ancient civilization. Readers will learn about technologies, such as agricultural tools and irrigation systems, that helped Egypt thrive. Chapters explore how these innovations developed and the role technology played in... |
|
|
Ancient Mesopotamian civilizationAn illustrated introduction to the civilization of ancient Mesopotamia centered around several of its key myths. Covers Mesopotamia's religion, government, food, military, trade, and cities. |
 |
From Nomads to FarmersExplore the agricultural practices and technological devices that led to the rise of civilization in Mesopotamia. Meet the nomadic people who became farmers, and see how they established city-states, developed specialized work skills, and advanced organized religion. |
|
|
Kid's Animated History with Pipo: Disc 2Kid's Animated History With Pipo presents The Time Compass -- showcasing significant historical events in a humorous and easy to understand style. This delightful series plays out in a book-like format, taking viewers on a journey in time. From Ancient Egypt to Classical Greece... |
Pages
Learn more on Engage NY
EngageNY.org is developed and maintained by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) to support the implementation of key aspects of the New York State Board of Regents Reform Agenda.
This is the official web site for current materials and resources related to the Regents Reform Agenda. The agenda includes the implementation of the New York State P-12 Common Core Learning Standards (CCLS), Teacher and Leader Effectiveness (TLE), and Data-Driven Instruction (DDI). EngageNY.org is dedicated to providing educators across New York State with real-time, professional learning tools and resources to support educators in reaching the State’s vision for a college and career ready education for all students.