CSTU 101 Learning Activity 1
CSTU 101 Learning Activity 1 Liberty University
Set 1
Background to the assignment: Who “owns” the past? Who has the right to define what the past means for us today? This assignment asks you to reflect on these questions. In the course of this assignment, you will discover that ancient history can sometimes be very contemporary, reminding us that the past is always present with us. Many of the conflicts in our world today have ancient roots, which is one of the reasons studying the past is important.
Description of the assignment: Go online and find some information about the “Elgin Marbles” (also called the “Parthenon Marbles”). Read a little about the controversy between the British and Greek governments concerning the ownership of these marbles. In a 2-paragraph essay, first summarize the controversy in your own words, and then take a clear position by supporting either the Greek or British side. Discuss 2 main reasons that support your position. You do not need to do extensive research or reading to complete this assignment well. However, if you include sources, cite them in current APA format. This assignment must be 250–300 words and include your word count in parenthesis.
Set 2
Background to the assignment: Studying the past is like excavating an archaeological site, such as opening up an ancient tomb. That’s one way of thinking of what we’re doing in this course: excavating the past and trying to understand what it means for us today. For this learning activity, I want you to think of yourself as an archaeologist. Specifically, I want you to read the original National Geographic article about Howard Carter’s discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamen in 1922. The article is available at:
http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/1923/05/tut-discovery/williams-text
Description of the assignment: Imagine that you were Howard Carter. Consider the following questions in a 2-paragraph essay. How would you feel as you stood before the sealed door, ready to open King Tut’s tomb? What would you most want to discover and understand about the past? As you entered the room that had been sealed for over 3000 years, what would you be looking for? How would you begin trying to make sense of what you found? Your answer should demonstrate knowledge of the article and the textbook, and be between 250–300 words. (Include your word count.)