World’s Best Ancient Civilization
Position Paper instructions
Topic choices
1. Prove to us that your civilization has more geographic advantages than other empires; therefore, yours
is in the best place!
2. Explain how your civilization gained power and defend the method.
3. Determine the cause for the fall of your civilization and provide a solution that would allow it to
continue.
4. Pick a specific event or problem from the history of your civilization and solve it.
5. Provide examples that illustrate the importance of your civilization in the course of human history; i.e.,
you were #1 or the best ever!
Research Links
Copy the URL or web address and add a brief description.
URL
Description
Sample resources
http://www.traveleguides.com/ancient-sites.php
Modern information for ancient areas
http://www.theancientweb.com/explore/index.aspx Decent information for many civilizations
3 paragraphs only!
Use precise language.
One page only! Change document margin sizes if necessary or alter sentences to fit one page.
Single space
Times New Roman #12 font
Left justification
NO PERSONAL PRONOUNS!!!
Page format or layout
Title:
Class:
Period:
Date Written:
Name:
Paragraph 1: 7-10 sentences
Background information.
-Remember, the info should come from more than one source.
-Make us feel like we’ve been there or at least understand what’s going on.
-We need to understand what the issue is and why it’s important.
Paragraph 2: 7-10 sentences
As an intro to this paragraph, tell us what is going on in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America during
the same time period as the ancient civilization you have selected to be the best.
Contrast your civilization with another ancient civilization or empire.
-It does not need to be from the same time period.
-The two civilizations do not need to have had or be capable of easy interaction.
-Take the opportunity to point out the shortcomings of the group you are contrasting with.
-This will help you prove that your civilization is the best as you defend it in the next paragraph
(#3).
-Be diplomatic! Don’t insult the other empires!
Paragraph 3: 5-7 sentences
Provide evidence and cite sources in order to justify the topic you have chosen.