Cultural Geography of Russia: History and Government

Essential Questions: How has physical geography affected where people have settled in Europe? Learning Target: IWBAT explain how Russia’s culture is unique. Formative Assessment(s): Write down three famous Russian leaders and what they are known for.

Bellwork Write down anything you know about Russian history. Examples you could use: Wars Famous people Government

Ivan the Terrible Fun Facts He became Grand Prince of Moscow at the age of 3 when his father died, but due to political intrigues going on at the time, he spent most of his childhood imprisoned in a dungeon while his mother managed affairs of state, until she died of poisoning. He had his first rival executed at age 13. In addition to being a horrible animal- torturing scoundrel, he was also a very devout Christian. He would sometimes go into fits of religious devotion, confessing his sins or banging his head against the floor.

Classwork TOGETHER, read about Early History on pages Write and answer the following questions in your notes: 1.What was the name of the loose group of city-states ruled by princes? 2.Who took over the Slav territories in the 1200s? 3.Which Muscovy prince helped reclaim land from the Mongols? 4.Who was the first Russian czar? 5.Who are the serfs?

Classwork TOGETHER, read about Early History on pages Write and answer the following questions in your notes: 6.Moscow was the first capital of Russia. What was the second? 7.What major railway connected Russia to its interior?

Kremlin Fun Facts The Moscow Kremlin is the oldest and the largest fortress in Russia, as well as one of the largest fortresses in Europe. The Moscow Kremlin was first a wooden, then stone and finally a brick structure, used to be a city in itself, surrounded by ramparts, towers and battlements in ancient times. The Kremlin was the residence of Russian princes and czar from the 13 th -18th century, and then for Communist leaders starting with Lenin in Today, it’s the official residence of the President of Russia.

Classwork TOGETHER, read about Revolution and Change on pages What is Russification? 2.What forced Czar Nicholas to give up his throne? 3.Who were the Bolsheviks and what did they believe in? 4.Who led the Communist party after Lenin’s death? 5.What is the Cold War and how was it fought? 6.Who was the first person to orbit the Earth?

Formative Assessment Write down three famous Russian leaders and what they are known for.