After students learn about the geography, natural resources and/or economy of ancient India, it can be helpful for them to see everything together on one map. In this activity, students will create a map that displays physical features, where natural resources are found, and what economies are found in different parts of the region. Students will also make a key to reference and add descriptions to explain the images they've chosen.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create an economic / natural resources or physical features map of India.
Student Instructions:
Requirements: 5-7 images that represent either physical features, natural resources, or economic activity placed in accurate locations on the map. Place the images with definitions in the key.
Give students access to printed or digital maps of ancient India. Make sure they are from an authentic resource and pertinent to the historical period you are concentrating on. Gather information on the geography of ancient India from books, periodicals, and internet sources. This will function as the activity's base.
Recommend some reading material to students from various sources and ask them to prepare beforehand so they can actually enjoy the activities. Besides reading, students can also watch some informative videos that can help them understand various aspects of maps and how they can be used to understand different aspects and support analysis.
A number of maps illustrating various eras of ancient India should be provided to students. Students should be asked to recognize and classify historical changes to borders, capitals, or important sites. As an extension of the activity, students can use colors or symbols to depict the changes and even create their own timelines.
Utilize internet resources or design physical games in which players engage with a map to solve puzzles or accomplish tasks pertaining to ancient India. This activity can foster critical thinking skills and make the process of learning more interesting and engaging.
Encourage the students to reflect on all the information and knowledge they have gained so far. Additionally, teachers can also set up follow-up tasks like composing a brief article, putting up a presentation, or conducting further research on various aspects. Reinforce concepts throughout different discussions and encourage the students to apply their knowledge in a practical environment.
Important geographical elements including the Deccan Plateau in the south, the Thar Desert in the northwest, the Ganges and Indus river basins for agriculture, and the Himalayan mountain range in the north all contributed to the special geographic features of ancient India.
The development of ancient Indian civilization depended heavily on the Indus and Ganges rivers. Their backing extended to trade, transportation, and agriculture. Students can reflect on how all these activities could be impacted if these rivers were not present.
Important towns were Varanasi (Benares) on the banks of the Ganges, Pataliputra (present-day Patna) in the Magadha area, and Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa in the Indus Valley.