Ancient Egypt

Egypt’s contributions• Papyrus—writing paper made from a reed also called papyrus. Papyrus could also be used to make baskets and sandals.

• They used a number system based on the number ten. They also used fractions and whole numbers.

• 365 day calendar

• They used geometry to survey or measure land.

• They contributed to the field of medicine—Egyptian doctors were the first specialists in medicine (eye doctors, dentists, surgeons)

•Were the first to use splints, bandages, and compresses. They sewed up cuts and set broken bones.

• They also treated problems such as indigestion (used castor oil) and hair loss (used a mixture—dog toes, dates, and donkey hoof).

Mesopotamia/Egypt Pen Pal Writing Assignment

• You will be assigned an identity from a past civilization: either from Ancient Egypt or Mesopotamia. You will then, using the friendly letter format, write a letter to a pen pal from either Egypt or Mesopotamia. You will write about your society and culture and how it is different from your pen pals society and culture.

• The letter must be at least three paragraphs long and be written in the correct friendly letter format.

•Be sure to show your knowledge of the civilizations and show your Language Arts skills as well.

•Due tomorrow at the beginning of class