Comparison: Networks of Exchange
WORLD HISTORY PROJECTAP/ LESSON 2.4ACTIVITYCOMPARISON: NETWORKS OF EXCHANGEUnless otherwise noted, this work is licensed under CC BY 4.0. Credit: “Comparison: Networks of Exchange,” OER Project, https://www.oerproject.com/1PurposeIn this activity, you’ll compare three major networks of exchange between 1200 and 1450: the Silk Roads, the Indian Ocean routes, and the trans-Saharan trade routes. At first glance, these networks may seem similar—they all moved goods and ideas across vast distances—but by comparing and contrasting them, you’ll uncover the unique characteristics and historical significance of each. This activity will deepen your understanding of how trade networks shaped political, economic, and cultural developments in different regions.PracticesReading, writingYou’ll use your close-reading skills to pull out information from the articles to complete the Comparison Tool, which is included in the worksheet.Comparison provides structure and organization to idea development and writing. In addition, you’ll be writing thesis statements in response to two comparison prompts.ProcessThroughout this unit, you’ve explored how trade routes connected different parts of the world from 1200 to 1450 CE. Now, you’ll bring that information together to focus on the similarities and differences across key networks.The class will be divided into small groups. Each group will be assigned (or will select) two of the following trade networks:•Silk Roads•Indian Ocean routes•trans-Saharan routesOnce you have your two regions, download the Comparison: Networks of Exchangeworksheet.Consider the questionsassociated with each of the themes.Review what you’ve learned about the two networks of exchange you’re focusing on. Then, working on you own, complete Part 1: Identifying and Describing of the Comparison Tool for your group’s trade routes. Next, discuss your answers with your group members.Once all groups have discussed Part 1 of the tool for their assigned articles, each group will share their similarities and differences by writing them on the chart your teacher creates on the board. Take a few minutes to read what the other groups found and look for similarities and differences across all of thetrade routes.Finally, return to your group and use what you’ve learned to create two thesis statements in response to these prompts:•To what extent were these networks of exchange politically, economically, and culturally similar?•To what extent were these networks of exchange politically, economically, and culturally different?Your teacher will collect your worksheets and written responses to assess your understanding of the topic and the historical reasoning skill of comparison.
WORLD HISTORY PROJECT AP / LESSON 2.4ACTIVITYCOMPARISON: NETWORKS OF EXCHANGE2Part 1: Identifying and Describing1.Write the topic of comparison at the top of the chart, and then add the cases you’re comparing and their associated time periods and locations.2.Respond to the questions in the Part 1 chart for each case you’re comparing. Use the resources provided.3.After responding to the questions for each case, identify and describe the similarities and differences between these cases.Part 2: Analyzing (Optional Extension)1.If you were going to write two essays about the similarities and/or differences you’ve identified for this topic, what are two thesis statements you might use? Write one thesis statement about similarities and one about differences.2.If required, use your thesis statements to craft a response to the comparison prompt for this activity.Topic of ComparisonPart 1: Identifying and DescribingCases You’re ComparingTime PeriodLocation
WORLD HISTORY PROJECT AP / LESSON 2.4ACTIVITYCOMPARISON: NETWORKS OF EXCHANGE3PoliticalSimilaritiesHow did states influence or benefit from this trade network?DifferencesEconomicSimilaritiesWhat types of goods were exchanged? What economic systems supported trade?DifferencesCulturalSimilaritiesWhat ideas, religions, or technologies spread through this network?Differences
WORLD HISTORY PROJECT AP / LESSON 2.4ACTIVITYCOMPARISON: NETWORKS OF EXCHANGE4Part 2: Analyzing (Optional Extension)Thesis Statement 1: SimilaritiesThesis Statement 2: DifferencesResponse