The chapter looks at the early cities of the Harappan Civilization- their planning, infrastructure and livelihood
Introduction to CBSE Class 6 Social Science History Chapter "In the Earliest Cities"
The “In the Earliest Cities” chapter in CBSE Class 6 Social Science History transports students back to around 4700 years ago when the first cities emerged in the Indus Valley Civilization. The chapter uncovers the sophisticated urban planning of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, showcasing advanced infrastructure such as well-laid streets, drainage systems, and warehouses. Students learn about the social and economic life of the people, their crafts, trade practices, and religious beliefs.
The archaeological methods that lead to the discovery of these cities are also discussed, highlighting how artifacts like seals, pottery, and tools offer insights into the past. This chapter paves the way for students to understand the complexity and significance of urbanization in human history, the importance of the environment in shaping civilizations, and how these early cities set the stage for future urban developments.
Assignments for CBSE Class 6 Social Science History Chapter “In the Earliest Cities”
- Map Study: Identify and mark the locations of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro on a map of the Indian subcontinent.
- Daily Life Illustration: Draw scenes depicting the daily life activities of people in the Indus Valley Civilization.
- Artifacts Analysis: Choose an artifact from the Indus Valley and write a paragraph about its possible use and significance.
- Trade Routes Exploration: Research and write about the trade routes and partners of the Indus Valley Civilization.
- Urban Planning Report: Write a short essay on the urban planning aspects of the Indus Valley cities and compare them to modern urban planning.
Conclusion
The chapter “In the Earliest Cities” not only offers a glimpse into the urban achievements of the Indus Valley Civilization but also fosters an appreciation for the ingenuity of our ancestors. Understanding these earliest cities gives students a sense of connection to the past and underscores the relevance of history in understanding the development of human societies.
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Questions and Answers for CBSE Class 6 Social Science History Chapter "In the Earliest Cities"
- Q1: What were the major cities of the Indus Valley Civilization?
ANS: The major cities were Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, and other important sites like Lothal and Kalibangan. - Q2: How were the cities of the Indus Valley planned?
ANS: The cities were planned with a grid system of streets, and featured sophisticated drainage systems, large central public buildings, and residential areas. - Q3: What kind of artifacts have been found in these cities?
ANS: Artifacts such as pottery, seals, beads, weights, and tools have been discovered, providing insights into the culture and life of the people. - Q4: What does the discovery of seals indicate about the Indus Valley Civilization?
ANS: The discovery of seals suggests that the people of the Indus Valley may have used them for trade and administrative purposes. - Q5: What kind of religious practices did the people of Indus Valley follow?
ANS: The religious practices are not entirely clear, but evidence points to the worship of mother goddesses, a male deity resembling Lord Shiva, and the use of ritual baths. - Q6: How did the Indus Valley Civilization carry out trade?
ANS: They traded with neighboring regions and distant lands like Mesopotamia, using overland and maritime routes. - Q7: What were the main crafts in the Indus Valley Civilization?
ANS: The main crafts included bead-making, pottery, seal-making, metallurgy, and textile production. - Q8: What evidence is there of the social divisions in the Indus Valley?
ANS: The differing sizes and quality of homes suggest social divisions, with larger homes possibly belonging to the wealthier class. - Q9: What is the significance of the Great Bath found in Mohenjo-daro?
ANS: The Great Bath may have held religious significance and could have been used for ritual purification. - Q10: Why is studying the earliest cities important for us today?
ANS: Studying the earliest cities helps us understand the origins of urban life and the evolution of social, economic, and political systems that shape the world we live in today.
