All three tasks need to be completed prior to school beginning!

Task 1

The Worst Mistake in the History of the Human Race

Instructions

1. Read the article below.

2. After reading the article, answer the questions below the article. This is an opportunity for me to see your writing skills, so be sure to form your thoughts well on paper. Use good conventions. Your response needs to be handwritten in black or dark blue ink!

The Neolithic Revolution is also called the Agricultural Revolution. It is considered one of the pivotal events in the history of the human species. In a period of several thousand years, humans went from a largely migratory species to an increasingly sedentary and agricultural society. Historians have often noted the fundamental and positive significance of the change from hunting and gathering to farming. However, some do not agree. In AP World History, you will develop your ability to question mainstream interpretations of history. Read “The Worst Mistake in the History of the Human Race,” by Jared Diamond. Mr. Diamond is one historian who disagrees with the positive view many have about the Neolithic Revolution.

If the article does not show up below, please click here.

Diamond-TheWorstMistakeInTheHistoryOfTheHumanRace.pdf

Prompts

Identify and explain Jared Diamond’s thesis in this article. (put this in your OWN words!)
- Your response should be 4-6 sentences for this question.
Describe the evils of modern society Mr. Diamond cites as evidence that the Neolithic Revolution was a negative event in the history of mankind.
- Your response should be 1-2 paragraphs for this question.
Of the evils Mr. Diamond cited, which do you believe had the largest impact? Explain your reasoning.
- Your response should be 1 paragraph for this question.
Based on the information you learned in this article, was the development of agriculture a positive or negative development for society? Provide two reasons to support your answer. Be sure to explain!
- Your response should be 2-3 paragraphs for this question.

Reminders

Please start your response for each of the prompts on a new line.
Your response should be handwritten in paragraph format (indentions, complete sentences).
Please provide AND explain specific evidence from the text. Your evidence needs to be written out in your own words- no direct quotes!
We are looking to see whether or not you can read a document and process the information within it.

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