Directions: complete the Venn Diagram below comparing and contrasting the Song and Tang Dynasties in China. Label each side, Song and Tang, and identify similarities in the middle.  Please address geography, government, society/culture, advancements, and the role of women.  You will need to use the websites below and your textbook:

Blank Venn Diagram: | MS Word | PDF |

After you finish the diagram, answer the following questions in complete sentences:

1. What were the most important Chinese advancements during the period?  Explain your choice.

2. How did improvements in transportation impact the Song and Tang Dynasties?

3. Which dynasty was more successful?  Why?

Websites:

• The Song Dynatsy - Columbia University
  http://afe.easia.columbia.edu/song/

• The Tang Dynasty - History of China.com
  http://www.history-of-china.com/tang-dynasty/

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Assignment Directions: | MS Word | PDF |
Characters & Assigned Roles: | MS Word | PDF |

In 1279 CE, the Mongols invaded and conquered the Song Dynasty in China. Your task is to determine what effects it had on the political, social and economic climate in south-east Asia?

For this assignment you will participate in a Discussion Board Simulation about Kublai Khan’s invasion of China.  During this simulation you will try to determine the following:

• What options do Kublai Khan and the Mongols have in China? 
• How should they establish the Yuan Dynasty? 
• How should the Mongols rule China? 

In order to complete the assignment, you will first be assigned a role (Mongolian noble, Mongolian warrior, etc.) and must read your textbook and the Mongols in China secondary source.  Then, you will complete the following steps:

** Everyone must post 3 times to the Mongols Activity Discussion Board in your assigned character.  Each posting should be detailed and demonstrate a knowledge of the time period. **

• Post your own recommendations to Kublai Khan on how he can successfully rule China.  Be sure they are realistic and highlight your persona’s perspective!
• Respond to 2 classmates postings.  Address their ideas, issues your character might have with their solutions and applaud their innovations.  Remember, in the end you would be advising Kublai Khan together!

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Bushido Reading: | MS Word | PDF |
Page 342: | PDF |

Japanese Samurai were members of Japan’s warrior class. Early samurai protected local aristocratic landowners. In the late 1100s, however, the warrior class secured national power and dominated Japanese government until 1868.

Samurai warriors followed an unwritten code that emphasized honor, bravery, and loyalty. This code came to be known as Bushido. Their reputation as fearsome warriors has become legendary.

Directions: Read the selection of the Bushido Code and look at page 342of your textbook, then answer the questions below in complete sentences.

1. What are some similarities or differences between Japanese samurai and European knights?
2. How might the code of the Samurai help them in battle?
3. What is the major duty of a samurai warrior?
4. Why can a warrior not fear death?
5. How does the concept of bushido fit into Japanese culture, both then and now?
6. Compare and contrast the basic principles of medieval chivalry and Japanese bushido.  How are they similar and different?  Please write a short essay (approximately 3 paragraphs for your answer).

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