Lesson 1: Foundations of Long-Distance Trade Networks
Duration of Days: 3
Lesson Objective
Students will explain why long-distance trade networks expanded between 1200 and 1450 by identifying economic, environmental, and technological factors.
Why did trade networks expand during this period?
What conditions made long-distance trade possible?
trade networks, commercial demand, luxury goods, camel saddle, monsoon winds
APWH Unit 2 Topics 2.1, 2.2
Skill 2.A
Reasoning Process: Causation
Identifying cause-and-effect relationships in informational texts.
This lesson introduces the causes behind the growth of long-distance trade and establishes a foundation for regional network analysis.
Purpose: Build causal understanding of exchange systems
DOK: 2
Modern global trade dependence on transportation technology and geographic conditions.
Students may assume trade expanded primarily for cultural reasons rather than economic demand.
Cause-and-effect organizers; extension through environmental analysis.
Formative multiple-choice questions focused on causation.
AP World History textbook, maps of trade routes