1. Unit 1: Patterns of Human Organization
Intro to Empires
Unit 1: Patterns of Human Organization

2. I can…
Formulate a definition of “empire” through various examples and non-examples
Describe the difference between an empire and other forms of civilization
Analyze text with the intention to question an established definition

3. What is a Critical Attribute?
Critical: Of essential importance Attribute: A characteristic or quality given to a person, place, or thing
Critical Attribute: A characteristic of something that is imperative to its definition
Example: The critical attributes of a table would be a flat surface and legs supporting the flat surface. If you take away any of those critical attributes, it is no longer a table.

4. Concept: Couch

5. Concept: Couch

6. Concept: Couch

7. These examples will be read aloud. While reading/listening, think:
Examples Handout
These examples will be read aloud. While reading/listening, think:
What are these examples describing?
What do these examples have in common?

8. Critical Attributes: Empire
Strong central government
Diverse population
Vast territory
Powerful and advanced military

9. Definition: Empire
A strong central state that exercises political control over a large amount of territory containing many diverse groups.

10. Examples and Non-Examples Handout
For this handout, read each entry.
For each entry, determine whether or not it fits into the definition of “empire” or not.
Is it an empire? Is it something else?
If not, what needs to be changed to make it an empire?