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Teacher's Guide for CALLIOPE: Alexandria Under the Ptolemies

October 2001

Teacher guide was prepared by Richard K. Munro.

Mark It On the Map
Hang a world map on the wall and locate map section found on page 2. Using the scale of miles on the world map, determine the approximate size of the area connected with this issue and compare with the continental United States. Then have students familiarize themselves with the map on pages 16 - 17, noting the cities. Using an Atlas or Almanac they can list the respective modern populations of these cities. Some may not exist and so will be listed with "zero" population. Others may have changed names. Students should use the map as a reference as they read the issue.

Introduction / Egypt Today and Then
Make two columns on the board for 255 BC (Hellenistic period) and today 21st century. Write them on the whiteboard or on an easel pad. List some cultural indicators: LANGUAGE(S), RELIGION(S), CUSTOM(S), GOVERNMENT, ECONOMY. Begin a discussion as to why the languages and cultural patterns of a region change focusing on three strong cultural influences from Alexander, the British, and Mohammed (Islam).

Vocabulary & Cultural Literacy
Most of those are defined within the issue. Have students make a mini-dictionary of "critical vocabulary" or cultural literacy facts in alphabetic order. The teacher can assign the entire issue for older students. For younger students or ELD students the teacher can choose one or several key articles to focus on. Students should quote use of word in text and then write a complete definition of the word, or have students choose a word to look up. Have students list seven most important people or events and explain why they think those events or individuals are important.

Oral Discussion Questions:
  1. Why did Alexander decide to conquer Egypt?
  2. Why didn""'t the Egyptian people oppose his entry?
  3. Which of Alexander""'s successors chose the best portion of his empire to rule?
  4. How much older are the pyramids than Alexander""'s period?
  5. Mention the discovery and importance of the Rosetta Stone (discovered during Napoleon""'s invasion of Egypt).
  6. Did the Greeks completely Hellenize Egypt or did an underclass of un-hellenized non-Greeks remain through out the Ptolemaic period?
  7. "Faro" means headlight or lighthouse in Spanish (see page 21) . . . does this have a relationship to the Pharohs of Egypt? Introduce the terms etymology and cognate (discuss page 22).
  8. Cleopatra was supposed to have been the most beautiful, cultivated and intelligent woman of her time as well as one of the richest. It has been said if Cleopatra""'s nose had been shorter or longer world history would have been changed. Discuss the role of beauty and charm versus brains and money. Cleopatra "had it all" but did it bring her final success and happiness?
Writing / Cultural Literacy
Have students list seven most important people or events and explain why they think those events or individuals are important. Based on the issue and other materials, ask students to write a brief biographical sketch of the key individuals involved, no one student choosing the same person. They may present their findings orally to class.

Play: Beneath Alexandria""'s Sapphire Sky
  1. Read, or put on, the play on page 24 - 25. The teacher should introduce the time, place and setting. The Narrator role could be spread among several students other students could act out servants in the beginning and in the end.
  2. Have students write a letter to the author about their impressions:
    c/o Arvin High School
    PO Box 518
    Arvin, CA   93203
    If you include a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelop) the author would be glad to reply.
Time Line Project
Using the time line on page 17, build a world history time line indicating what other important events were happening during this time frame. Students could be split into groups looking at Asia, Africa, the Middle East, the Americas, etc.

Internet Poster / Research Project
Chose a person, city or theme and research on the Internet. Cut and paste quotations, maps and pictures (or draw) to make a poster-collage. Display on bulletin board.

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