Development of Civilizations
The goal of social studies education is for students to develop thinking and decision-making skills that prepare them for responsible citizenship in a democratic society. Sixth graders continue to work toward this goal by investigating the emergence and development of civilizations in River Valley Civilizations (Ancient Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, Ancient India and Ancient China) and Classical Empires between 3500 BCE-600 CE. Students will explain the origins, functions and structures of governments. Students explain how markets exist whenever there is an exchange of goods and services. Students compare how human and environmental characteristics of a region influenced the movement of people, goods and ideas. Students will compare the origins and development of early world religions. Students will describe how River Valley Civilizations transitioned to empires. Through an understanding of ancient history, students develop an appreciation for the foundations of the modern world.
