Chinese Dynasty Project
During this unit you will be learning about some of the major dynasties in ancient China.
For this project you will also be investigating one extension activity and reporting back
about it to your classmates. This extension will deepen your understanding of China’s
history and the impact of the dynasties.
Extension Activity:
Extensions activities require a one page,single spaced,
typed summary of your research. You also must cite
your references (use http://www.calvin.edu/library/
knightcite/ to help you) on a separate page. Your project
must include a cover with your name, topic and a photo
that represents your research. Your extension will be
presented in class so you should be prepared to speak
about what you’ve learned.
•Terracotta Warriors:
•Research the Terracotta Army during the Qin dynasty
•What is the story behind this army - (who/what/when/
where/why?)
•Create at least one accurately detailed “terracotta”
warrior using homemade playdough or a terracotta
mixture (found at Michael’s)
• Chopsticks:
• Research chopsticks made during the Zhou dynasty
• Why were they created and what were they used for?
• What materials are they made out of?
• How does one properly use chopsticks- rules and etiquette
• Attempt to use chopsticks for one meal and give a summary about
your experience.
• Chinese New Year:
• Research the Chinese New Year during the Han dynasty
• What is this holiday all about? When did it start, why did it start?
• What are the rituals that accompany this holiday?
• How is this holiday practiced today? When is it celebrated?
• Calligraphy:
• Research Chinese calligraphy
• What is calligraphy? How is it created (materials used etc..)
Roma 2014
• Watch the video on appreciating calligraphy: https://
www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEN0CzGv5-Y
• Then watch a tutorial on calligraphy. https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=VR6s8XjmjNE
• Draw the chinese symbol for moon - you may use the tutorial video to
help you. Use materials as close to authentic as you are able (for
example a paintbrush and paint/ink).
• Tea Ceremony:
• Research the Chinese tea ceremony
• Discuss the history of tea drinking in China.
• What are the customs when tea is drunk.
• When is finger tapping done, and what does it indicate?
• Drink a glass of tea (your choice!) and describe how you brewed and
enjoyed it.
• Silk Road:
• Research the Silk Road.
• What was it and were was it located?
• Why was it called the Silk Road & what happened along it?
• Find a map that shows the routes along the Silk Road.
• How was this road changed in modern time?
• Seismoscope:
• Research the seismoscope invented in China by Chang Heng.
• Describe what this invention looked like and explain how it worked.
• Why might this have been a good invention for this time?
• Draw or find a computer image of this seismoscope.
Roma 2014