SOCIAL STUDIES GRADE SIX – ANCIENT EGYPT Influence on modern life Historical Accomplishments Nile River Content Vocabulary: papyrus cataract silt delta artisans pharaoh dynasty regent absolute power afterlife mummy pyramid hieroglyphics Old Kingdom New Kingdom Geography Influence of silt and the delta History Ancient Egypt Pharaoh Absolute power Government Culture Influence of dynasties Economics Polytheism Hieroglyphics Belief in the afterlife Development of artisans and skilled workers Importance of trade Essential Understandings/Learning Goals: The natural environment of the Nile Valley shaped the development of Egyptian civilization. The Egyptians developed a hereditary system of government based on religious authority. Written records, specifically hieroglyphs, influenced political, legal, religious, and social life in Ancient Egypt. Polytheistic religion was a major part of life in Ancient Egypt. Economic developments, including improved trade, agricultural improvements, specialization of labor, and improved tools and weapons, helped the Ancient Egyptians strengthen their empire.