Using a G.R.A.P.E.S. Chart to organize information about ancient Civilizations is a useful tool to enhance students' analysis of the characteristics and contributions of a society. Going further and including visuals helps students to better retain the details of each category. In this activity, students will create a spider map that focuses on the politics of ancient India. They should be able to understand how these things changed and developed over the course of history, and how they influenced society.
By focusing on just one category, students are encouraged to include more information and should complete at least three cells. Students can come together after they’ve created their storyboards to share what they’ve learned. The full G.R.A.P.E.S. Chart can be used as a post assessment after students have presented.
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map focusing on the different characteristics of the politics or government of ancient India.
Student Instructions:
Requirements: Minimum of 3-6 cells showcasing different characteristics of the Government of ancient India. Appropriate scenes to illustrate each cell. 1-3 sentence description for each cell demonstrating your understanding.
Begin by introducing the different types of political systems to students. Teachers can give simple explanations such as monarchy is being ruled by a King or a queen, democracy is electing a leader from a political party, etc. Give examples of each system so students can use the knowledge for practical application.
In order to compare ancient Indian civilizations, students have to select another civilization. Teachers can make a list of different civilizations from the same or different time periods. Students can select one civilization they find interesting to draw the comparison.
Once the students have selected another civilization for the comparison, guide them to use their previous knowledge and identify the political systems for both civilizations. This approach will help them use information for practical application and reinforce newly learned concepts.
Teachers should give clear guidelines on what aspects of the political systems students will be considering for comparison. These might include the role of citizens, legal frameworks, social hierarchies, and governmental structures. Once the students have a more defined framework for comparison, they will know what aspects they should look for.
Plan discussions in class so that students may present their research and ideas. Urge them to compare and contrast the political structures of the various civilizations. When students present their findings regarding different civilizations, it fosters a collaborative learning environment.
In ancient India, rulers were frequently kings or monarchs with dual religious and political authority. Among the well-known emperors are Harsha, Ashoka, and Chandragupta Maurya. Students can research further on the regimes of these famous royal members and the contribution of each member towards the development or decline of the civilization.
Ancient Indian politics were significantly influenced by religion. Kings were frequently viewed as quasi-divine beings and religious rites and customs served to justify their authority. The caste system which was backed by religion also played a significant role in governing politics.
Legal frameworks and procedures were in existence in ancient Indian communities. Laws and penalties were part of the governing rules supplied by texts such as the Manusmriti and the Arthashastra. Religion also played an important role in supporting these frameworks.