From Farming to Civilizations

Lennymar·

Farming

Preview

At a Glance

Grade Level6th Grade

SubjectFarming

Original Prompt

Agriculture & Surplus (Introduction to irrigation and surplus) IQ: How did farming allow civilizations to grow? LO: Explain the role of agriculture and irrigation in supporting larger populations.

This learning resource explores the critical role of farming in the development of early human civilizations. It addresses how agricultural practices, particularly the advent of irrigation systems and the concept of food surplus, fundamentally transformed nomadic lifestyles into settled communities. The document covers key vocabulary including agriculture, surplus, irrigation, and civilization, and describes the transition from nomadic life to the rise of cities. It highlights the progress made in ancient irrigation methods across various cultures—such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China—and illustrates how these advancements not only increased food production but also led to job specialization, population growth, and the establishment of complex societal structures. Engaging activities encourage students to reflect on the significance of these developments in shaping the dynamics of early civilizations and their influence on modern society.