Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Curriculum Area Project
Title: Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography
Date: August 31, 2010
Writer: Christina Luciano
Grade Level: Tenth
School Year: 2010-2011
School District: East Meadow School District
Subject Area: Global Studies
Table of Contents
Abstract………………………………………………………………………………….....page 3
1
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Rationale……………………………………………………………………………..….....page 4
Thematic Essays
Change-Ideas………………………………………………………………………….…...page 5
Graphic Organizer……………………………………………………………….....page 6
Cultural & Intellectual Life…………………………………………………………….…..page 7
Graphic Organizer……………………………………………………………….....page 8
Belief Systems…………………………………………………………………………...…page 9
Graphic Organizer……………………………………………………………….....page 10
Geography……………………………………………………………………………….…page 11
Graphic Organizer………………………………………………………………….page 12
Human Rights……………………………………………………………………………....page 13
Graphic Organizer……………………………………………………………….....page 14
Justice & Human Rights……………………………………………………………………page 15
Graphic Organizer………………………………………..………………………...page 16
Geography (How humans change their environment)………………………………….….page 17
Graphic Organizer………………………………………………………………….page 18
Belief Systems………………………………………………………………….……….….page 19
Graphic Organizer……………………………………………………………….....page 20
Political System…………………………………………………………………………….page 21
Graphic Organizer……………………………………………………………….....page 22
Change (Nonpolitical Revolution).……………………………………………….…..……page 23
Graphic Organizer…………………………………………………….…………....page 24
Political Change…………………………………………………………………….……...page 25
Graphic Organizer…………………………………………………………..……...page 26
Conflict-Threatened Peace…………………………………………………………...…….page 27
Graphic Organizer………………………………………………………………….page 28
Change…………………………………………………………………………………..….page 29
Graphic Organizer……………………………………………………………….....page 30
Change-Society…………………………………………………………………...………..page 31
Graphic Organizer………………………………………………………..………...page 32
Movement of People & Goods-Trade……………………………………………...………page 33
Graphic Organizer………………………………………………………..………...page 34
Turning Points……………………………………………………………………..……….page 35
Graphic Organizer……………………………………………………......………...page 36
Change-Political Events……………………………………………………………...…….page 37
Graphic Organizer………………………………………………………...………..page 38
Conflict……………………………………………………………………………………..page 39
Graphic Organizer………………………………………………………..………...page 40
Change-Political Revolutions…............................................................................................page 41
Graphic Organizer………………………………………………………..………...page 42
Global Problems………………………………………………………………....…………page 43
Graphic Organizer……………………………………………………………..…...page 44
Nationalism ………………………………………………………………………………..page 45
Graphic Organizer………………………………………………………..………...page 46
Cold War…………………………………………………………….………………..……page 47
Graphic Organizer………………………………………………………...………..page 48
Works Cited……………………………………………………………………….……….page 49
2
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Abstract
Title: Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography
Grade: 10th
Thematic essays are essays that are part of the New York State Assessment in the Global
History and Geography Regents Exam. In general, they are essays that often require the student
of Global History to write about a certain topic or theme that cuts across time and culture.
Graphic organizers are a pictorial way of constructing knowledge and organizing
information. They help the student convert and compress a lot of seemingly disjointed
information into a structured, simple-to-read, graphic display. The resulting visual display
conveys complex information in a simple-to-understand manner. The process of converting mass
information and ideas into a graphic map gives the student an increased understanding and
insight into the topic at hand. While creating a map, the student must also prioritize the
information, determining which parts of the material are the most important and should be
focused upon, and where each item should be placed in the map. The creation of graphic
organizers also helps the student generate ideas as they develop and note their thoughts visually.
The possibilities associated with a topic become clearer as the student's ideas are classified
visually. The following graphic organizers coincide with thematic essays adapted from Global
History and Geography Regents exams over the course of several years.
3
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Rationale
Title: Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography
Grade: 10th
· Students with very diverse levels can often collaborate meaningfully on a graphic organizer.
· More advanced learners are often challenged by graphic organizers because the format gives
them an opportunity to incorporate prior knowledge and real-world applications.
· Students who did not initially know the information at the comprehension level still have the
opportunity to demonstrate their intelligence when higher-level thinking is required in
completion of the organizer.
· Students with low literacy skills, limited fluency in the language of instruction, and those with
diverse learning styles can often process information presented in this format more readily than
they can traditional text material.
· Organizers are often easily modified for special needs students.
4
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) Explain means “to make understandable (clear); to give reasons for or causes of; to show the
development or relationships of”
(b) Describe means “to illustrate (show) something in words or tell about it”
(c) Discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Change — Ideas
The ideas of individuals have had a significant influence on groups, nations, and regions.
Task:
Select one individual
• Explain a specific idea developed by the individual
• Describe the historical situation that surrounded the development of the idea
• Discuss how the idea influenced a group or a nation or a region
Some suggestions you might wish to consider include:
Simón Bolívar, Karl Marx, Kemal Atatürk, Mao Zedong, Hitler, Nelson Mandela, Deng
Xiaoping, and Mikhail Gorbachev
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global History and Geography - June ‘10 Regents Exam
5
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Change-Ideas
Directions: Select one individual
• Explain a specific idea developed by the individual
• Describe the historical background that surrounded the development of the idea
• Discuss how the idea influenced a group or a nation or a region
Individual
Idea of the
individual
What caused the
development of
this idea?
How did this
idea influence
the people,
nation, or
region?
6
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) Describe means “to illustrate (show) something in words or tell about it”
(b) Discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Culture and Intellectual Life
Intellectuals, philosophers, and leaders have often recorded their ideas in written works. These
ideas have been used throughout history to guide societies and influence the course of national
and regional development.
Task:
Select one intellectual, philosopher, or leader and a writing associated with that person
• Describe the historical conditions surrounding this writing
• Describe a main idea found in this writing
• Discuss how this idea has influenced the development of a nation or region
Some suggestions you might wish to consider include:
John Locke—Two Treatises on Government
Karl Marx—Communist Manifesto
Theodor Herzl—On the Jewish State
Adolf Hitler—Mein Kampf
Mao Zedong—Little Red Book
Nelson Mandela—Long Walk to Freedom
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global History & Geography Jan. ’10 Regents Exam
7
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer- Culture and Intellectual Life
Directions: Select one intellectual, philosopher, or leader and a writing associated with that
person
• Describe the historical conditions surrounding this writing
• Describe a main idea found in this writing
• Discuss how this idea has influenced the development of a nation or region
Identify one person
and a writing
What caused this
person to create this
writing?
Explain one major
idea in this writing.
How did this writing
influence the
development of a
nation or region?
8
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) Explain means “to make understandable (clear); to give reasons for or causes of; to show the
development or relationships of”
(b) Discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Belief Systems
A belief system is an established, orderly way that groups or individuals look at religious faith or
philosophical principles. These systems have often affected politics, society, and the economy in
the nations or regions in which they are practiced.
Task:
• Explain one major idea of the belief system
• Discuss the effects the belief system has had on the politics, society, and/or the economy of a
specific nation or region
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Discuss all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Some suggestions you might wish to consider include:
Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Daoism, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo.–Aug. ’09 Regents
9
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Belief Systems
Directions:
• Explain one major idea of the belief system
• Discuss the effects the belief system has had on the politics, society, and/or the economy of a
specific nation or region
Belief System:
Major Idea of
this Belief
System:
Effects the belief
system had on
the Economy,
Society, or
Politics
10
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) Explain means “to make understandable (clear); to give reasons for or causes of; to show the
development or relationships of”
(b) Discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Geography
Geographic factors have affected the development of nations and regions. These factors have
also promoted or hindered cultural diffusion.
Task: Select two different geographic factors and for each
• Explain how the geographic feature affected the development of a specific nation/region.
• Discuss how that geographic feature promoted (helped) or hindered (hurt) cultural diffusion
Some suggestions you might wish to consider include:
deserts, rivers, mountains, plains, islands, irregular coastlines, straits, climate, and location
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo.–Jan. ’09 Regents
11
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Geography
Directions: Select two different geographic features and for each
• Explain how the geographic feature affected (influenced) the development of a specific
nation/region.
• Discuss how that geographic feature promoted (helped) or hindered (hurt) cultural diffusion.
1-Geographic Feature:
2-Geographic Feature:
Geographic features influence on a nation/region:
Geographic features influence on a nation/region:
How did the geographic feature help or hurt
cultural diffusion?
How did the geographic feature help or hurt
cultural diffusion?
12
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) explain means “to make understandable; to give reasons for; causes of; to show the
development of”
(b) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail
(c) describe means “to show something in words or tell about it”
Theme: Human Rights
Throughout history, there have been many examples where groups of people have been denied
their human rights. Individuals, groups, and governments have attempted to end many of these
human rights violations although they have not always been successful.
Task:
Select one example from history where human rights have been denied to a group of people:
• Explain the historical circumstances (situation) that led to the denial of human rights
• Describe how the human rights of that group were denied (taken away)
• Discuss an action taken by an individual, a group, or a government that attempted to end the
human rights violations
Some suggestions you might wish to consider include:
Jews in Russia during the pogroms, the Armenians under the Ottomans, blacks under apartheid
in South Africa, Chinese students in Tiananmen Square, Bosnian Muslims in the former
Yugoslavia, and women under the Taliban in Afghanistan, Jews in Nazi Germany, Kurds in Iraq
or Turkey, Tutsi’s in Rwanda, or Tibetans in China
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Discuss all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo.–June ’09 Regents
13
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Human Rights
Directions: Select one example from history where human rights have been denied to a group of
people:
• Explain the historical circumstances (situation) that led to (caused) the denial of human rights
• Describe how the human rights of that group were denied (taken away)
• Discuss an action taken by an individual, a group, or a government that attempted to end the
human rights violations
What group had
rights taken
away
What led to
(caused) the
denial of human
rights?
Give examples
of how the
human rights
were taken
away.
Discuss the
actions taken
(results) to end
the human
rights violation.
14
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Thematic Essay Question
Directions: Write a well- organized essay that includes an introduction, several paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) explain means “to make understandable; to give reasons for; causes of; to show the
development of”
(b) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail
(c) describe means “to show something in words or tell about it”
(d) identify means to “establish or indicate (point out) who or what (someone or something) is
Theme: Justice and Human Rights
Throughout history, the human rights of certain groups of people have been violated. Efforts
have been made to address these violations.
Task:
 Define the term “human rights”
 Identify one example of human rights violations that have occurred in a specific time and
place
 Describe the causes of these human rights violations
 Discuss one specific effort that was made to deal with the violation
Some suggestions you might wish to consider include:
Jews in Russia during the pogroms, the Armenians under the Ottomans, blacks under apartheid
in South Africa, Chinese students in Tiananmen Square, Bosnian Muslims in the former
Yugoslavia, and women under the Taliban in Afghanistan, Jews in Nazi Germany, Kurds in Iraq
or Turkey, Tutsi’s in Rwanda, or Tibetans in China
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Discuss all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global History & Geography June 2000 Regents Exam
15
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Justice and Human Rights
Directions: Select one example from history where human rights have been denied to a
group of people:
 Define the term “human rights”
 Identify one example of human rights violations that have occurred in a specific time and
place
 Describe the causes of these human rights violations
 Discuss one specific effort that was made to deal with the violation
Identify one group
that has had their
human rights
violated
Define the term
“human rights”
Give one example
of the human rights
violation
What caused this
situation to
happen?
What was done to
attempt to deal
with this violation?
16
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a)explain means “to make understandable; to give reasons for; causes of; to show the
development of”
(b) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail
Theme: Geography (How Humans Change Their Environment)
Throughout global history, human societies in various nations and regions have changed their
physical environments to meet their needs. Societies have built structures, removed vegetation
and resources, and modified the land to meet their needs. These changes have often had different
results.
Task:
Select two different nations/regions and for each
• Explain why the society modified their environment
• Explain how the people of that specific nation/region modified their physical environment
• Discuss the effect this modification had on that nation/region
Some suggestions you might wish to consider include:
Middle East (modified the land), Africa (modified the land), Japan (modified the land), Great
Britain (removed resources), South Africa (removed resources), Brazil (removed vegetation),
China (built a structure), and East Germany (built structures)
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo.–Aug. ’08 Regents
17
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Geography (how humans changed their environment)
Directions: Select two different nations/regions and for each
• Explain why the society modified their environment
• Explain how the people of that specific nation/region modified their physical environment
• Discuss the effect this modification had on that nation/region
Nation/Region
Nation /Region
Why the society modified (changed) the
environment?
Why the society modified (changed) the
environment?
What actions did the people take to modify the
environment?
What actions did the people take to modify the
environment?
What were the (results) effects of this change?
What were the (results) effects of this change?
18
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a)explain means “to make understandable; to give reasons for; causes of; to show the
development of”
(b) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail
Theme: Belief Systems
The world has many different belief systems. Each is distinctive, but all greatly influenced the
lives of their followers and the society in which the belief system was practiced.
Task:
Choose one major belief systems
• Explain key beliefs and/or practices
• Discuss an influence the belief system had on the lives of its followers or the society in which it
was practiced
Some suggestions you might wish to consider include:
Animism, Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Daoism, Islam, Judaism, legalism, and Shinto
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. – June ’08 Regents
19
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Belief System
Directions: Choose one major belief systems
• Explain key beliefs and/or practices
• Discuss an influence the belief system had on the lives of its followers or the society in which it
was practiced
Belief System:
List the belied
and/or practices
How did this
belief system
influence society?
20
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a)describe means “to show something in words or tell about it”
(b) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Political Systems
Political systems have affected the history and culture of nations and societies.
Task:
Choose two different political systems and for each
• Describe the characteristics of the political system
• Discuss how the political system has affected the history or culture of a specific nation or
society
You may use any political systems from your study of global history. Some suggestions you
might wish to consider include:
Absolute Monarchy
Constitutional Monarchy
Parliamentary Democracy
Theocracy
Communism
Fascism
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. -Aug ’07 Regents
21
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Political System
Directions: Choose two different political systems and for each
• Describe the characteristics of the political system
• Discuss how the political system has affected the history or culture of a specific nation or
society
Choice 1: Political System:
Choice 2: Political System:
Nation:
Nation:
Characteristics of this political system
Characteristics of this political system
Affects this political system had on the culture of a
nation or society
Affects this political system had on the culture of a
nation or society
22
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, several paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) describe means “to illustrate (show) something in words or tell about it”
(b) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Change
Not all revolutions are political. Nonpolitical revolutions have brought important intellectual,
economic, and/or social changes to societies.
Task:
Identify one Nonpolitical revolution that brought important intellectual, economic, and/or social
changes to societies and for each
• Describe one change brought about by this nonpolitical revolution
• Discuss an impact this nonpolitical revolution had on a specific society or societies
You may use any nonpolitical revolution that brought important intellectual, economic, and/or
social changes from your study of global history. Some suggestions you might wish to consider
include:
The Enlightenment (17th–18th centuries), the Agricultural Revolution (18th–19th centuries), the
Industrial Revolution in Europe (18th–19th centuries), and the Green Revolution (late 20th
century)
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. – Jan. ’08 Regents
23
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Nonpolitical Revolution
Directions: Identify one Nonpolitical revolution that brought important intellectual, economic,
and/or social changes to societies and for each
• Describe one change brought about by this nonpolitical revolution
• Discuss an impact this nonpolitical revolution had on a specific society or societies
Nonpolitical
revolution
Nation/region
Give a brief
background to
this revolution
One change that
resulted from
this revolution
One impact this
revolution had
on society
24
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) Explain means “to make understandable (clear); to give reasons for or causes of; to show the
development or relationships of”
(b) Describe means “to illustrate (show) something in words or tell about it”
(c) Discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Political Change
Often, governments implement policies in an attempt to change society.
Task:
Choose one example where a government attempted to change society
• Describe the change the government wanted to bring about
• Explain why the government wanted to make this change
• Describe one specific policy the government used to try to bring about this change
• Discuss the extent to which this change was achieved
Some suggestions you might wish to consider include:
Reign of Terror during the French Revolution under Robespierre, Meiji Restoration in Japan
under the Emperor Meiji, modernization of Turkey under Atatürk, five-year plans in the Soviet
Union under Joseph Stalin, fascism in Italy under Benito Mussolini, and oil policies in
Venezuela under Hugo Chávez, communism under Mao Zedong
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. – June ’07 Regents
25
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Political Change
Directions: Choose one example where a government attempted to change society
• Describe the change the government wanted to make
• Explain why the government wanted to make this change
• Describe one specific policy the government used to try to bring about this change
• Discuss the extent to which this change was achieved
Government:
Nation:
Leader:
What change
did the
government
want to make?
Why did the
government
want to make
changes?
How did the
government
try to make
changes?
(new policies/
ideas/ laws)
Explain if this
change was or
wasn’t
successful?
Why?
26
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, several paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep this general definition in mind:
(a) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
(b) Identify means to “establish or indicate who or what (someone or something) is”
Theme: Conflict
Conflicts between groups of people have threatened peace in many nations and regions.
Task:
Identify one conflict that has threatened peace in a nation or region and
• Discuss one major cause of that conflict
• Identify two opposing groups involved in the conflict and discuss one viewpoint of each group
• Discuss the extent to which the conflict was or was not resolved
Some suggestions you might wish to consider include:
the French Revolution, World War I, the Russian Revolution, the Chinese civil war, the partition
of India, the policy of apartheid in South Africa, the Rwandan civil war, and the Bosnian War.
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. – June ’06 Regents
27
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Conflict
Directions: Identify one conflict that has threatened peace in a nation or region and
• Discuss one major cause of that conflict
• Identify two opposing groups involved in the conflict and discuss one viewpoint of each group
• Discuss the extent to which the conflict was or was not resolved
Nation/Region
Cause of
Conflict
Name one group
involved & their
viewpoint
Name the other
group involved
& their
viewpoint
What was the
result of this
conflict?
28
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) Explain means “to make understandable (clear); to give reasons for or causes of; to show the
development or relationships of”
(b) Describe means “to illustrate (show) something in words or tell about it”
(c) Discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Change
The ideas and beliefs of philosophers and leaders have led to changes in nations and regions.
Task:
Choose one philosopher or leader and for each
• Explain a major idea or belief of that philosopher or leader
• Discuss how that idea or belief changed one nation or region
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. – Jan. ’06 Regents
29
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Change
Directions: Choose one philosopher or leader:
• Explain a major idea or belief of that philosopher or leader
• Discuss how that idea or belief changed one nation or region
Name of a
philosopher/
leader
Major ideas or
beliefs
How that idea
changed the
nation or
region
30
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) describe means “to illustrate (show) something in words or tell about it”
(b) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Change
Throughout history, the actions of leaders have changed the society in which they lived.
Task:
Identify one leader who changed the society in which they lived and for each
• Describe one situation the leader attempted to change
• Describe one action the leader took to change this situation
• Discuss the impact of that action on the society in which the leader lived
You may use any leader from your study of global history and geography. Some suggestions
you might wish to consider include:
Toussaint L’Ouverture
Napoleon Bonaparte
Simon Bolivar
Otto von Bismarck
Mohandas Gandhi
Mao Zedong
Ho Chi Minh
Fidel Castro
Nelson Mandela
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. – Aug. ’05 Regents
31
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Change
Directions: Identify two leaders who changed the society in which they lived and for each
• Describe one situation the leader attempted to change
• Describe one action the leader took to change this situation
• Discuss the impact of that action on the society in which the leader lived
Leader &
Nation
situation
that the
leader
wanted to
change
Actions
taken to
change the
situation
Results this
change had
on society
32
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, several paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) explain means “to make understandable; to give reasons for or causes of; to show the logical
development or relationships of”
(b) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Movement of People and Goods: Trade
Trade routes and trade organizations have had an impact on nations and regions. The effects have
been both positive and negative.
Task:
Identify one trade route and/or trade organization and for each
• Explain one reason for the establishment of the trade route or trade organization
• Discuss one positive effect or one negative effect of the trade route or trade organization on a
specific nation or region
You may use any example from your study of global history. Some suggestions you might wish
to consider include:
Mediterranean trade routes, the British East India Company, the Organization of Petroleum
Exporting Countries (OPEC), and the European Union (EU)
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the them
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. – August ’06 Regents
33
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Movement of People and Goods: Trade
Directions: Identify one trade route and/or trade organization and for each
• Explain one reason for the establishment of the trade route or trade organization
• Discuss one positive effect or one negative effect of the trade route or trade organization on a
specific nation or region
Identify one trade
route and/or trade
organization
Explain one reason
for the creation of
this trade route
and/or trade
organization
one positive effect
or one negative
effect of on a
specific nation or
region
34
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) Explain means “to make understandable (clear); to give reasons for or causes of; to show the
development or relationships of”
(b) Describe means “to illustrate (show) something in words or tell about it”
Theme: Turning Points
Turning points are major events in history that have led to lasting change.
Task:
Identify two major turning points in global history and for each:
• Describe the historical circumstances surrounding the turning point
• Explain how each turning point changed the course of history
You may use any example from your study of global history. Some suggestions you might wish
to consider include:
the French Revolution, the Russian Revolution of 1917, World War I, creation of the modern
state of Israel, Nelson Mandela elected president of South Africa, and the fall of the Berlin Wall
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. –June ’04 Regents
35
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Turning Points
Directions: Identify two major turning points in global history and for each:
• Describe the historical circumstances surrounding the turning point
• Explain how each turning point changed the course of history
1) Turning Point:
2) Turning Point:
Cause of the turning point
Cause of the turning point
Result of the turning point
Result of the turning point
36
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, several paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
(b) evaluate means to “examine and judge the significance, worth, or condition of; to determine
the value of”
Theme: Change [Political Events]
Twentieth-century political events have had positive and negative effects on global history.
Task:
Identify one 20th-century political event
• Discuss the historical circumstances surrounding the event
• Evaluate the extent to which this event has had a positive or a negative effect on global history
You may use any major political event from your study of global history. Some suggestions you
might wish to consider include:
Lenin’s establishment of a Communist government in Russia, rise of totalitarian governments in
Europe, Ho Chi Minh’s unification of Vietnam against imperialism, increasing support for
Islamic fundamentalism in the Middle East, Mao Zedong’s Cultural Revolution in China, the
dismantling of the Berlin Wall, development of nuclear weapons in India and Pakistan, and
Nelson Mandela’s opposition to apartheid in South
Africa
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the them
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. – Jan. ’05 Regents
37
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizers: Change [Political Events]
Directions: Identify one 20th-century political events
• Discuss the historical background surrounding the event
• Was this event a positive or a negative effect on global history
Identify one
20th-century
political events
Discuss the
historical
background
surrounding the
event
Was this event
positive or
negative on
history? Give
examples.
38
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, several paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
(b) analyze means “to determine the nature and relationship of the component elements”
Theme: Conflict
Differences among groups have often led to conflict.
Task:
Identify two ethnic, religious, political, and/or cultural conflicts and for each:
• Discuss the historical circumstances that led to the conflict
• Analyze the effect of this conflict on two groups involved
You may use any examples from your study of global history and geography. Some suggestions
you might wish to consider include:
the Reign of Terror, the Armenian massacres, the forced famine in Ukraine, the Holocaust,
Apartheid in South Africa, the Killing Fields of Cambodia, the conflict in Northern Ireland, the
Sandinistas in Nicaragua, and the Tiananmen Square rebellion
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. –June ’03 Regents
39
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Conflict
Directions: Identify one ethnic, religious, political, and/or cultural conflict:
• Discuss the historical circumstances (situation) that led to the conflict
• Analyze the effect of this conflict on two groups involved
Conflict &
groups
involved
Causes that
led to the
conflict
Effects of
this conflict
40
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) Explain means “to make understandable (clear); to give reasons for or causes of; to show the
development or relationships of”
(b) Describe means “to illustrate (show) something in words or tell about it”
(c) Evaluate means “to examine and judge the significance, value, or condition of; to determine
the value of”
Theme: Change
Throughout history, political revolutions had many causes. These revolutions affected society
and led to many changes. The changes may or may not have resolved the problems that caused
the revolutions.
Task:
Choose one political revolution from your study of global history and geography and:
• Explain the causes of the revolution
• Describe the effects this political revolution had on society
• Evaluate whether the effects of the revolution helped or hindered the original problem
You may use any example from your study of global history, but do not use the American
Revolution. Some suggestions you might wish to consider include the French Revolution (1789),
Mexican Revolution (1910), Russian Revolution (1917), Chinese Revolution (1949), Cuban
Revolution (1959), or Iranian Revolution (1979)
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. –Jan. ’03 Regents
41
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Change
Directions: Choose one political revolution from your study of global history and geography and:
• Explain the causes of the revolution
• Describe the effects this political revolution had on society
• Evaluate whether the effects of the revolution helped or hindered the original problem
Political
Revolution
Cause of the
revolution
Effects of the
revolution
Did the
results of the
revolution
help or hurt
the original
problem?
42
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) describe means “to illustrate (show) something in words or tell about it”
(b) discuss means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument;
to present in some detail”
Theme: Global Problems
Throughout history, global problems have posed major challenges for nations and regions.
Task:
Select one global problem and for each
• Describe one major cause of the global problem
• Discuss one effect of the global problem on a specific nation or region
You may use any global problem from your study of global history. Some suggestions you might
wish to consider include:
environmental pollution, desertification, deforestation, overpopulation, refugees, spread of
disease, international drug trafficking, and ethnic conflicts
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
Adapted from the Global Hist. & Geo. – June ’05 Regents
43
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Global Problems
Directions: Select one global problem and for each
• Describe one major cause of the global problem
• Discuss one effect of the global problem on a specific nation or region
Identify the
Global
Problem
Cause of the
global problem
Effect of the
global problem
on a region
44
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
In developing your answer, be sure to keep these general definitions in mind:
(a) describe means “to illustrate (show) something in words or tell about it”
(b)discuss: means “to make observations about something using facts, reasoning, and argument:
to present in some detail.”
Theme: Nationalism
Throughout history, nationalist movements have begun in different countries and regions with
the hope of achieving either unification or independence. The results of these movements have
been mixed.
Task:
Choose one country or region and
 Describe the historical background (causes) that led the people of this country or region
to begin a nationalist movement
 Describe a goal of the nationalist movement
 Discuss a method (actions) used to achieve this goal
 Discuss the results of this nationalist movement on this country or region
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are
beyond a restatement of the theme
You may use any example from your study of Global History and Geography. Some suggestions
include: Indian Nationalism, German Nationalism in the 1930s & 1940s, Chinese Nationalism in
the late 1800s & early 1900s, Latin America, and the Balkans.
Adapted from the Global History and Geo. -Aug 10’ Regents
45
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Graphic Organizer: Nationalism
Directions: Choose one country or region and
 Describe the historical background (causes) that led the people of this country or region
to begin a nationalist movement
 Describe a goal of the nationalist movement
 Discuss a method (actions) used to achieve this goal
 Discuss the results of this nationalist movement on this country or region
Country or
Region
Cause
Goal
Action
Result
46
Grade 10~ Thematic Essays & Graphic Organizers for Global History & Geography ~ 2010-2011
Work Cited
Global History and Geography Regents Examinations ."
http://www.nysedregents.org/GlobalHistoryGeography/ . University of the State of New York New York State Education Department, July 12, 2010. Web. 2 Aug 2010.
47