6th Grade Social Studies: Ancient China Vocabulary

Key Vocabulary for Ancient China

• Yellow River: Known as the cradle of Chinese civilization, it is the second-longest river in China and has played a crucial role in shaping Chinese agriculture, culture, and settlement.
• Yangtze River: The longest river in Asia, significant for transportation, irrigation, and historical trade routes.
• Gobi Desert: A vast desert in northern China that serves as a natural barrier and offers insights into ancient trade routes and habitation challenges.
• Rice: A staple food in Chinese diet, essential for agriculture and economy.
• Tea: A central aspect of Chinese culture and tradition, known for its social and health benefits.
• Dynastic Cycle: The historical pattern of the rise, decline, and replacement of dynasties in China, reflecting the Mandate of Heaven.
• Confucianism: A philosophical system founded by Confucius, emphasizing ethics, familial respect (Filial Piety), and social harmony.
• Daoism (Taoism): A philosophy that emphasizes living in harmony with the Dao (the way), nature, and simplicity.
• Legalism: A strict philosophy advocating for a strong, centralized government with harsh laws and punishments.
• Warring States Period: An era of fragmentation in Chinese history prior to the unification under the Qin dynasty, characterized by battles among states.
• Silk Road: The ancient trade network connecting China with the West, significant for cultural, commercial, and technological exchange.
• Ethics: The study of moral principles guiding behavior, closely tied to Confucianism in ancient China.
• Great Wall: A series of fortifications aimed at protecting against invasions, symbolizing Chinese strength and ingenuity.

Topics to Review

• Chinese Geography: Understand significant geographical features such as mountains, rivers, and deserts, and their influence on civilization.
• The Dynastic Cycle: Study the pattern of how dynasties rise and fall, often linked to the concept of the Mandate of Heaven.
• Achievements of Ancient China: Explore major innovations and contributions, including papermaking, the compass, and gunpowder.
• The 3 Chinese Philosophies:
  • Compare Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism, focusing on their core beliefs, purpose, and influence on society.
• Impact of the Silk Road: Investigate how trade affected cultural exchange, economic development, and the spread of ideas.
• Purpose of the Great Wall: Understand its strategic importance in defense and as a symbol of unity in ancient China.
• Building the Great Wall: Research the historical context and labor involved in its construction.
• Tea Culture: Examine the historical significance of tea in social rituals and daily life in China.

Questions to Consider

• Geography’s Impact: Analyze how the geographical features of China influenced settlement patterns, agriculture, and interactions with neighboring cultures.
• Dynastic Cycle Insights: Reflect on what the dynastic cycle reveals about the stability of leadership and the notion of legitimacy in governance.
• Philosophical Similarities and Differences: Evaluate how Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism addressed governance, societal roles, and ethical behavior.
• Importance of the Silk Road: Discuss its role in facilitating trade and cultural exchange between East and West and its lasting legacy.
• Significance of the Great Wall: Consider its symbolic importance and practical function in historical context.
• Cultural Importance of Tea: Recognize tea’s role in daily life, cultural expression, and its evolution over time in Chinese society.