Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to identify and describe the Sumerian civilization, including their contributions to early human history.

Materials and Prep

• Internet access or reference books about the Sumerians
• Pen and paper for note-taking

Activities

1. Research and Exploration:

   Using the provided resources, the student should conduct research on the Sumerian civilization. They can explore various aspects such as their location, daily life, inventions, and cultural achievements.

2. Note-taking and Summarizing:

   While conducting research, the student should take notes on important information about the Sumerians. They can organize their notes by creating headings and subheadings to categorize the information. Afterward, they should write a brief summary of what they have learned.

3. Creative Representation:

   The student should create a visual representation of the Sumerian civilization. This can be a poster, a diorama, or any other creative medium that showcases the key aspects and achievements of the Sumerians.

Talking Points

• "The Sumerians were one of the earliest civilizations in human history, existing around 4000 to 2000 BCE in Mesopotamia, which is present-day Iraq."
• "They developed a system of writing called cuneiform, which involved using wedge-shaped marks on clay tablets."
• "The Sumerians made significant contributions to mathematics, including the development of the sexagesimal system and the concept of a circle having 360 degrees."
• "They built impressive ziggurats, which were stepped pyramids used as religious temples and administrative centers."
• "The Sumerians had a complex social structure, with kings ruling over city-states and priests playing a crucial role in religious ceremonies."
• "Their advancements in agriculture, such as the invention of the plow and the use of irrigation systems, allowed them to cultivate fertile land and support a growing population."