Time Lines of the Ancient World

Student Guide

Assignment Summary
For this assignment, you will choose two ancient civiizations to create timelines about one topic. You will
research the ancient civilizations, then create two parallel timelines with the same time range.

Background Information
Historians use time lines to track the order of key events in different time periods. In this assignment, you
will create parallel time lines with the same time range to compare different regions of the ancient world.
Focus your time lines on one topic, such as rulers, art, or politics. This assignment will help you practice
your historical-thinking skills. It will also give you an opportunity to review key information from different
historical eras.

Materials
 Computer with internet access  Chart with suggested dates and events

Assignment Instructions
For this project, you will submit parallel time lines with the same time range for the regions of the ancient
world, and a chart containing the dates and events from the time lines.
Step 1: Prepare for the project.
a) Read through the guide before you begin so you know the expectations for this project.
b) Choose two ancient civiizations
c) Choose one topic to research abou both civilizations, such as rulers, art, or politics
d) If anything is not clear to you, ask your teacher for assistance.
Step 2: Research background information on two ancient civilizations.
a) Research the key events and dates in these regions.
b) Research the artifacts that were typical of each region and time period.
c) Be sure to use reliable internet sources, such as the following:
I. Encyclopedia Britannica: www.britannica.com
II. Library of Congress: www.loc.gov
III. The Smithsonian Museum’s Learning Lab: www.learninglab.si.edu
Step 3: Organize your research in a chart.
a) Organize your findings in a chart. You can use the chart below.
b) Identify the time range both of your time lines will have. It must be the same time range for both.
c) Place all entries in chronological order, using BCE and CE time measurement.
Step 4: Create parallel time lines that show key events and dates in regions of the ancient world.
Access the timeline builder here.
a) Plan: Sketch your time lines on a piece of paper before you begin.
b) Draft: Create a rough draft of your time lines.
c) Revise: Review your work, correct mistakes, and make improvements.

Copyright © Edgenuity Inc.

 Student Guide (continued)

d) Decorate your time lines with images of artifacts.

e) Include a list of internet sources with your time lines.
Step 5: Use this checklist to evaluate your project.
When you can answer yes to all of these questions, you are ready to submit your time lines.

Yes No Evaluation Question

Do your time lines include dates and key events related to the regions?

Are your time lines organized chronologically using BCE and CE measurement?

Did you include all dates and key events for each region?

Did you add images of artifacts to your time lines?

Do your time lines use correct punctuation and grammar?

Do your time lines present information in ways that will engage your audience?

Are your time lines neat, easy to read, and visually appealing?

Step 6: Revise and submit your project.

a) If you were unable to answer yes to all of the questions on the checklist, revise and save your
time lines before submitting your assignment.
b) When you have completed your time lines, return to the Virtual Classroom and use the “Add
Files” option to locate and submit your assignment. Ask your teacher for assistance if necessary.
c) Ask your teacher whether you will present your time lines to an audience of your peers.

Copyright © Edgenuity Inc.

 Student Guide (continued)

Sample Chart

Location Date Key Event

Mesopotamia 3000 BCE Sumerians implemented math.

Copyright © Edgenuity Inc.