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Ancient China

GREAT WALL OF CHINA

One of the great ancient civilizations of the earth was China. It may not have started first but it certainly lasted the longest. Much of world culture has been influenced by the Ancient Chinese civilization. Because the civilization developed separate it is very different. This makes it fun and interesting to learn about.

Dynasties

There were many different ruling families over the years in China. These were called dynasties. They began in 10,000 to 15,000 B.C. and lasted clear up to 900 A.D. That is a long time!

  1. Which dynasties were in control during the bronze age.
  2. Which dynasty was credited with building the great wall of China?
  3. Describe the use of oracle bones by the emperor.
  4. Compare and contrast the T'ang Dynasty with the Xia Dynasty.

 

The Great Wall

One of the wonders of the world, the great wall is an impressive accomplishment. Read and learn about it. The facts will amaze you.

  1. How long is the great wall?
  2. Can the great wall be seen from the moon?
  3. What is the wall made of?
  4. Draw a map of China and insert the great wall in the correct location.
  5. Name the first Chinese emperor, and describe his accomplishments.

 

Chinese Writing

The Chinese developed a system of writing that is truly unique.

  1. Write the chinese symbol for mouth.
  2. Write the chinese symbol for moon.
  3. Are chinese symbols based on pictures they represent.
  4. What are the 2 types of chinese writing?

 

Terra Cotta Warriors

Buried in large pits, an army of warriors, horses, weapons, and chariots were placed to protect the emperor of China. Thousands of years later they were uncovered. Learn about this undertaking and see pictures of the uncovered treasure.

  1. What were the peasants doing when they accidentally discovered artifacts from the Terra Cotta army?
  2. How many different pits were uncovered?
  3. What can you tell me about the number of different facial expressions and hair syles of the warriors?
  4. How much does the larger chariot weigh?
  5. Describe some of the weapons found in the pits.

 

Philosophy and Religion

There were three great doctrines followed by all in ancient China. A man might honor his ancestors by following the rigid rules of social behavior as dictated by Confucianism, attend a Buddhist pageant, and practice Taoist breathing exercises, all in the same day. These three doctrines were an important part of daily life.

  1. Compare the three teachings sometimes called the three doctrines: Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism.
  2. Which of the 3 doctrines is considered a religion?
  3. How does Winnie the pooh relate to the doctrine of Taoism?

 

Chinese New Year

The Chinese developed a completely different calendar than the one that we use. Learn about these differences on this site.

  1. How long is the lunar cycle?
  2. How do the chinese catch up to the solar calendar?
  3. Briefly describe what is done on each day of the 15 day new years celebration.
  4. What are some traditional foods of the celebration?
  5. How do they decorate for the new year?
  6. Describe some of the taboos and superstitions of the Chinese New Year.

 

Author: JERRY MANGUS - Email mangusmath@comcast.net