Early Humans Unit: The Birth of Religion - Our Understanding of History Challenged
Assignments to hand in: Birth of Civilization Article Notes Organizer [Word Version] Profundity Graphic Organizer [Word Version]
shared learning target and introduction:
What will I be able to do?: You will map out the key concepts covered in the National Geographic article, "The Birth of Religion," about the historical significance of Gobekli Tepe.
What idea, topic, or subject is important for you to learn and understand so that I can do this?: You will learn how our common understanding of the trasition from paleolithic to neolithic life and the impact of the introduction of agriculture has recently been challenged or is changing.
What I will do to show that you know this?: You will take notes while reading the National Geographic article and then complete a Profundity Map.
Introduction:
The Neolithic Era was assumed to begin when our planet warmed after the last ice age. Humans were then able to plant or cultivate seeds so that they were be able to stop roaming the land in search of food. But, as we know that our understanding of history is forever changing, this theory is being challenged.
Gobekli Tepe, an almost 12,000 year old site is a large temple complex indicating there was an organized form of religion back then. Former thinking thought that the invention of agriculture brought upon organized religion, yet this vast architectural site was created before humans planted their own food or had domesticated animals.
Step 1: Watch the Introductory Video - This will provide you with an overview and visual for context while reading afterwards.
Step 2: Slideshow of Gobekli Tepe Site - View the slideshow of pictures that correspond to the article below.
[Click on the image above to view the slideshow]
Step 3: Read "The Birth of Religion" (National Geographic) - Read the article The Birth of Religion Notes Organizer [Word Document] underlining/highlighting important information and taking bullted notes in the designated areas. Look at the visuals below as they correspond to the article.
Paths to Civilzation (Two differing theories as to how we "civilized" ourselves:
Where Farming Began Illustrated Map:
(Click map to enlarge as PDF)
Building Gobekli Tepe - An artist's rendition:
(Click illustration to enlarge as PDF)
Step 4: Profundity Map - Complete the Profundity Map Graphic Organizer [Word Version] after reading the article above.
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