Overview of the Road Ahead
Due: ____by 7:21 AM, Thursday 11/7 (submitted electronically via email or TurnItIn)___
Situation:
As the 1st marking period of AP World History comes to a close, it may be a good time to solidify the history we have learned and open our mind to the history that we are yet to learn. In this extra credit assignment, you will preview global developments by reading a short non-fiction book for non-historians that relates the history of the world to foods or beverages. Alternative views and narratives of history, such as these, not only help make history more memorable, but also help challenge assumptions that arise from the single interpretation of global events that may develop in history class or in a textbook.
Purpose:
· Summarize the history of the world.
· Analyze the connection between world history and one WHAP overarching idea.
Task:
· Write a 1-2 page single-spaced essay that debates how world history aligns / does not align with one of the following overarching ideas:
o Humans’ need to adapt to environments has necessitated technological innovation.
o Cultures spread through syncretism.
o Economic conditions and religion are key in legitimizing or undermining government.
o Ever intensifying trade is a powerful force for social and political change.
o Social inequality is source of conflict yet ever-present in civilizations.
Procedure:
1. Obtain a copy of one of the following books from the library or book store:
o History of the World in Six Glasses by Tom Standage
o An Edible History of Humanity by Tom Standage
o Salt by Mark Kurlansky
2. Read the book.
3. Write an essay that:
o Has a thesis addressing the accuracy or inaccuracy of one of world history’s overarching ideas.
o Briefly summarizes the history of the world according to the author.
o Gives examples to support the position of the thesis.
o Concludes with a personal connection to the book and overarching idea. (could answer one of the following)
§ What did you find surprising about the facts introduced in this book?
§ Obviously, the author cannot include every important event in world history, but organizing history in this manner offers some implicit arguments and biases. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the author’s approach? Does the narrative represent this history fairly?
§ Is there a single food/drink/object/development that you feel best relays the history of the world?
4. Submit essay to TurnItIn.com before due date.
o www.turnitin.com
o Class ID = 4394361, Class Name = NPenn-WHAP, Password = whap
Rubric:
3 pts / · Displays analytical & original thought beyond simplistic answers· Displays a thorough understanding of the entire source material
· Answers the question completely, thoroughly, & accurately
· Supports conclusions with many specific examples & details
2 pts / · Displays some analysis & making connections although may be simplistic
· Displays an understanding of the source material
· Answers the question completely & accurately
· Supports conclusions typically with examples & details
· Any omissions or factual errors are rare & minor
1 pt / · Displays little analysis or original thought – relying heavily on source material
· Displays a limited understanding of source material
· Answer addresses the question but not fully
· Conclusions are based on generalities & a limited number of examples
· Any omissions or factual errors are common or significant
0 pts / · Displays little understanding of source material, lacks focus on the purpose & task, and/or has plagiarized information