Classical Japan: Geography and Civilization

Students are introduced to the physical geography of Japan and its impact on the development of civilization there. Then they examine the ancient and classical periods of Japanese history and create a timeline of the most significant features. Finally, they learn about The Tale of Genji and reflect on the role of a literary work as a historical document.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

1:1 Devices
Teacher Pack

The Pack contains associated resources for the learning experience, typically in the form of articles and videos. There is a teacher Pack (with only teacher information) and a student Pack (which contains only student information). As a teacher, you can toggle between both to see everything.

Here are the teacher pack items for Classical Japan: Geography and Civilization:

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Overview

In this experience, students are introduced to the physical geography of Japan and its impact on the development of civilization there. Then they examine the ancient and classical periods of Japanese history and create a timeline of the most significant features. Finally, they learn about The Tale of Genji and reflect on the role of a literary work as a historical document.

Objectives

  • Describe the physical geography of ancient and medieval Japan.
  • Identify the ways that geography influenced early Japanese civilization.
  • Describe the social, political, economic, and religious development of early Japan.


Do you ever marvel at the fact that there are young people just like you living their own lives all over the world? For example, if you go halfway around the world to Japan, you would find kids your age reading books, watching TV, playing games with their friends, and going to school. The same has been true throughout history. In this experience, you’ll go back in time to learn about the earliest history of that country all the way on the other side of the globe.

Objectives

  • Describe the physical geography of ancient and medieval Japan.
  • Identify the ways that geography influenced early Japanese civilization.
  • Describe the social, political, economic, and religious development of early Japan.


photograph of the region from the air

Satellite Image of Japan


What do you know about Japan’s history and geography? List one or more facts now. If someone has already listed the fact that you know, try to think of a different one.


Discuss student responses. If students list inaccurate information, offer corrections.


In this experience, you will focus on geographic features of this island country as well as the early civilizations there.


When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.

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Classical Japan: Geography and Civilization
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