World History: Journey Across Time, The Early Ages

Chapter 6: Early India

Web Activity Lesson Plans

Introduction
In this chapter students have learned about India's first civilization. Harappan, or the Indus civilization, began in the Indus River Valley. The civilization was named in honor of its first discovered city - Harappa. As you know, the Harappan left no written records. What we know about this early civilization has been concluded by studying the ruins left behind. Harappa was first excavated by British explorers and archaeologists in the 19th century. In this activity, students will learn more about the Harappan civilization by visiting the Web site featuring the discoveries of leading Indus scholars. Their work has brought new insight to India's first civilization.

Destination Title: Harappa.com

Lesson Description
Students will research the ruins of India's first civilization. They will review the information and findings highlighted on Harappa.com and gain a better appreciation for the civilization that sprang to life on the banks of the Indus River. After viewing a slideshow, students will answer four questions. They will apply their knowledge in a brief essay, detailing a Harappan artifact and explaining the item's importance.

Instructional Objectives

  • Students will describe the findings at Harappa and relate them to the history of the civilization.
  • Students will analyze artifacts and describe their purpose and importance.

Student Web Activity Answers

  • The Himalaya provided timber, animal products, and minerals, gold, silver, tin, and semiprecious stones. These items were traded throughout the Indus Valley.
  • The structure is similar to Roman buildings that were used as granaries. It is impossible to prove this theory because no burned grain or storage containers have been discovered at the site.
  • Archaeologists have unearthed stone beads, shell ornaments, glazed faience ornaments, and stone tools.
  • Terra cotta was used in the majority of crafts and figurines that have been excavated from the Harappan site.
  • Answers will vary but may include pottery, tools, crafts, or other artifacts. Essays should be brief, but should include a detailed account of the item and the student's interpretation of the item's use and significance. Essays should reflect a willingness to be a part of the archaeological process.

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