Introduction

 
 

Definition of civilisation: 
Civilisation refers to an advanced state of human society that has developed in all spheres of life. A civilised society has a superior culture compared to other cultures. Civilisation is a complex way of life that came about as people began to develop urban settlements. The earliest civilisation was after 3000 BC when the rise of agriculture allowed people to have surplus food and economic stability. Different societies have different ideas about the precise meaning of civilisation. 

 
ACTIVITY 1
You are going to read about a number of different early civilisations. Before you start reading, in your groups discuss and write answers to the following:

  • Which early civilisations do you expect or want to read about. List them.
  • Is it useful to learn about these civilisations? If yes, why?
  • Write down one thing that each member of the group wants to find out about from this unit

  • At the end of the unit, we will check to see if your hopes and expectations were correct.





Now read the information in the next page.