Synthesis

Essential Question: How can the criteria used to define a civilization be applied to Pre-Columbian societies?

Synthesize your findings by creating a first draft of your presentation for the panel discussion.

Before you begin, recall the items you were asked to consider in planning your presentation;

Criteria For Civilization

• Large and thickly populated settlements
• A variety of specialized occupations
• The ability to produce and store surplus food and other goods
• Large public buildings
• A variety and ranking of social positions
• Writing and a system of notation
• The beginning of science
• The development of an important art style
• Trade over long distances
• The beginning of social control based on a central government rather than kinship.

Subsidiary questions

Topic Questions

In your first draft of the presentation:

• Have you answered all of your questions?
• Do you have enough supporting ideas and details for each of your questions?
• Do you have sufficient facts and details to inform an audience on your cuture?
• Do you have a fairly complete understanding of the important facts regarding your culture?
• Which facts are the most compelling and would have the greatest impact on your audience?
• What new insights have emerged about your topics?
• What information will you include to enhance your classmates' understanding of your culture?
• How will you organize your information?
• What plan of action will you follow in crafting your final presentation?
• Have you decided on a format for your presentation that will best represent your information for your audience?