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| LESSON 3: Networks of Exchange | |
SUPPORTING QUESTION | To what extent did the Indian Ocean and Trans-Saharan trade networks connect distant regions? | |
FOCUS SKILL(S) | Contextualization Evaluating Evidence Historical Significance | |
MATERIALS | STUDENT Access to Inquiry Journal (Already handed out in Lesson 1) | |
DO FIRST | Option 1- Frayer: Network Option 2- Map Analysis | |
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ACTIVITY 1 - LAUNCH | Provide students time to preview the supporting questions for Topic 2 in their Unit 6 Inquiry Journals. | |
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The Rise of a Connected World Daily Lesson Plan (60 Minutes)
©2026 Thinking Nation
thinkingnation.org
| LESSON 3: Networks of Exchange - Continued | |
ACTIVITY 2 - PRACTICE | Allow students an opportunity to gain historical background on Trans-Saharan and Indian Ocean Trade Networks by reading “What is the Context?” - Networks of Exchange (page 1 of student worksheet). Students will answer check for understanding questions as they read. This reading can be done individually or with a partner. | |
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ACTIVITY 3 - EXHIBIT | In this activity, students will use two online interactive maps to investigate how the Indian Ocean Trade Network and the Trans-Saharan Trade Network fostered connection across Afro-Eurasia and shaped the development of cities, ports, and empires. Consider scaffolding the activity by modeling 1 or 2 boxes on the chart to support students in reading maps using legends and keys. Students should begin with the Indian Ocean Trade Network interactive map and then transition to the Gold Road interactive map. | |
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The Rise of a Connected World Daily Lesson Plan (60 Minutes)
©2026 Thinking Nation
thinkingnation.org
| LESSON 3: Networks of Exchange - Continued | |
CONCLUSION | Students will complete an “Exit Ticket” in which they reflect on their learnings from the day using a write and draw approach. The “Say-it-in-Six” will require students to thoughtfully consider and synthesize information from the lesson. The illustration will provide a creative opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding. | |
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STANDARD(S) | 1.38 Use maps to analyze the emergence of major networks of exchange (trade routes) between 400-1200 CE, including the role of specific goods and commodities and technology. | |
The Rise of a Connected World Daily Lesson Plan (60 Minutes)