
In this lesson, students will examine the four-occupation social structure of ancient China, exploring how each class was defined by its economic role and how rigid class boundaries affected the everyday experiences of people from the emperor down to the slaves. They will analyse the power relationships between the shi, nong, gong, and shang classes, consider the position of women within this hierarchy, and evaluate the ways in which the mandate of heaven gave the emperor authority over the entire population.Students will have the opportunity to achieve this through choosing their own method of learning, from reading, research, and watching options, as well as the chance to engage in extension activities. This lesson includes a self-marking quiz for students to demonstrate their learning.
