Contextualization

The first steps of human civilization emerged in Mesopotamia, a place rich in history and innovations that shaped current societies. Mesopotamia, whose name originates from a Greek expression meaning 'between rivers', refers to a region in the Middle East where ancient civilizations arose and thrived. The Tigris and Euphrates rivers played a fundamental role, providing water, transportation, and a means of sustenance for the region's early inhabitants.

In this area, the first cities, the first writing systems, and the first legal codes emerged - important milestones in human evolution. Amidst fertile plains and flowing rivers, civilizations such as Sumer, Akkad, Assyria, and Babylon developed, each contributing significantly to our current understanding of society, culture, and technology.

Introduction

In this project, we will closely study life in Ancient Mesopotamia, covering key concepts such as the rise and fall of empires, the evolution of writing systems (like Cuneiform), the importance of agriculture, and the creation of the first cities (urbanism).

Additionally, we will address topics that transcend the history discipline, such as mathematics through the exploration of Babylonian mathematical knowledge and even astronomy by discussing how the Mesopotamians used stars and planets to guide their lives. This project aims not only to convey knowledge about an important phase of human history but also to build skills such as teamwork, research, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: Building Mesopotamia: An Interdisciplinary Journey

Project Objective:

The main objective of this activity is to allow students to deeply understand the complexities of ancient Mesopotamia, analyzing both the historical and cultural/scientific aspects of this civilization. They will be able to appreciate the importance of this region for human development, as well as relate the history of that time to current society and their own daily lives.

Detailed Project Description:

This activity will be carried out in groups, with 3 to 5 students per team, and we estimate it will require more than twelve hours of individual work, in addition to several team collaboration sessions.

Students will be tasked with 'rebuilding' Mesopotamia, not literally, but through a three-dimensional model. This will include recreations of cities, plantations, and other relevant aspects of life in Mesopotamia. Additionally, students will also prepare a presentation on the notably relevant aspects of Babylonian mathematics, cuneiform writing, and the Mesopotamian zodiac.

Required Materials:

1. Cardboard, scissors, glue, and paint for the construction of the 3D model.
2. Computer with internet access for research.
3. Books and informative resources about Mesopotamia.
4. Presentation software for the final presentation (PowerPoint, Google Slides, or similar).

Step-by-Step for Activity Execution:

1. Research and Planning: Each group should extensively research Mesopotamia, covering aspects such as geography, society, agriculture, writing, mathematics, and astronomy.
2. Model Construction: Based on their research, groups should build a 3D model of Mesopotamia, which should include at least one example of a city, a river system, and agricultural areas.
3. Presentation Preparation: Alongside the model construction, students must prepare a presentation highlighting Mesopotamia's notable achievements in terms of writing (Cuneiform), mathematics, and astronomy.
4. Presentation and Discussion: Groups will present their models and discuss their findings. Each group member should actively participate in the presentation.
5. Report Preparation: After completing the practical activity and the presentation, students should work together to write a detailed report describing the entire process, from initial research to final conclusions.

Project Deliverables:

1. 3D Model of Mesopotamia: This is a visual component of the project that should demonstrate students' understanding of Mesopotamia's geographical features and infrastructures.
2. Oral Presentation: The presentation should focus on themes such as Cuneiform writing, Babylonian mathematics, and the Mesopotamian zodiac. It should have well-founded information, fluency, and clear exposition of the content.
3. Written Report: The report should contain an introduction (contextualizing Mesopotamia and the project), development (with the central theme theory of the project, detailed explanation of the activity, methodology used, and data obtained), conclusion (summarizing the main points and project conclusions), and bibliography (indicating the sources used in the project).

This report serves as documentation of the project, as well as evidence of students' understanding and the research conducted. It should be written clearly, coherently, and well-structured, indicating not only what was done but also what was learned during the project.