We had our Interdisciplinary Studies (IS) lesson today. And we pretty much learnt about the history of China and the individual historic dynasties. Hey , did you know that China has approximately 5000 years of recorded history and tradition? And the two great projects that they have built are The Grand Canal and The Great Wall.
Firstly, The Great Wall. This wall is made up of stones and was rebuilt and maintained in the past, from time to time. The purpose of this wall was to protect the northern borders of the Chinese Empire from Xiongnu (who was known to be very powerful as compared to the other armies) attacks. And during the creation of this wall, about 2-3 million of Chinese had sacrificed their lives.
Secondly, The Grand Canal of China is also known as the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. And the fascinating fact is that it is the longest ancient canal in the world which is man-made! The total length amounts up to 1770km which is roughly 1114 miles.
Okay, the Chinese have invented several items that is currently used amongst people these days. They are known for 4 great inventions. The Compass, Gunpowder, Paper and Printing!Before paper was even invented, our ancestors dated way back into the history wrote and carved on tortoise shells, animal bones and even bamboo slices. But such examples were to heavy to be used so papermaking was gradually invented by an official named Cailun.
Later into the 4 hour period, we began to emphasize more on the various dynasties. I didn't know there that even existed a female empress. And to date, only one female could ever account for such a record. She is Empress Wu Zetian. Her story is rather interesting. So thought jolting that I found out she actually killed her own daughter just so she could be the empress.
Okay, it's very confusing. Firstly, Emperor Gaozong was the leader at that point in time and he was captivated by her beauty and intelligence so he made her his concubine. At that time, there existed Empress Wang (I think she was Emperor Gaozong's wife) so Wu Zetian had to think of a method to get rid of her. And also, Emperor Gaozong was sickly then so he literally had one foot stepped into his grave already. Therefore, Wu Zetian gave birth to a daughter but killed her then blamed Empress Wang for the guilt. So Emperor Gaozong deposed Empress Wang. Alas! Wu Zetian successfully became the empress. Although she was rather ruthless but she was well known for her great contributions to China and her people were very respectful of her.
Okay, enough of history lesson here. I got up about nine plus and showered. Seok, Winson and myself went to the food street as usual for our brunch. We then headed off to the shopping centre beside MacDonald's. I forgot what the name was though. Hmm, Seok got a pair of Nike shoes whilst I got a Nike backpack for my sister. ATALIA HOWE! See, I treat you so nice! You know what to do huh.. Anyway the bag cost 298RMB, in turn about 67SGD plus..
The teacher posed questions to the floor and whoever got the correct answers earned themselves a reward which was a pen.
See, my assistant leader is so excited.
Mr Wong managed to answer her questions too! Three questions to be exact. So he too got a reward.
Yes, prize presentation time !
As I have mentioned earlier on, the four great inventions of the Chinese.
These guys were... Eating chewing gum =..=
It's going to be a long day ahead tomorrow. Lessons from morning till late afternoon. Byebye!
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