Final Exam Guidelines

Format:
10% map
20% identifications
10% primary sources
60% essay

Map:

You will be asked to locate 5 of 8 places on a map. The map used is on page 200 of Shaw's history, and is entitled "The Nile Valley and Palestine c. 1650-1550BC"

Be sure to note what ancient sites are often referred to by modern names, e.g., Akhetaten=Amarna, Avaris/Pi-Ramesse=Tell al Dab'a, el-Lisht possibly =Itj-tawy

Identifications:

These will consist of names, locations, dates, etc., that relate to significant topics in the course. Focus on terms mentioned in lecture, particularly the ones referred to in the questions at the beginning of class. You will be asked to identify 5 total from a list of 10.

For example:

Faiyum
Karnak
Mut
Punt
Kamose

Note: you should make it a habit to indicate date or period for every identification. Be as specific as possible. Points will be deducted if you omit this. Of course, points will also be deducted if you provide an incorrect date or period.

Further note: identifications are graded by whole points, with 4 being the maximum. The more correct information you provide, the closer you will come to getting all 4.

Here is a sample answer:

bevel-rimmed bowls: a bowl characteristic of Uruk culture (1) of the late 4th –early 3rd millennia BCE (2). Its standard sizing (3) may indicate the use of standard measures, trade, and a redistributive economy (4).

Primary sources:

You will be given 3 selections from assigned primary sources and asked to write on 1. The author and title of the work will be provided. Identify, in 1 or 2 paragraphs, the period in which the work was written and its significance not only for its immediate context but also for themes discussed in this portion of the course in general.

Essay:

You will be given 3 essay topics and asked to write on one. All will test your knowledge and understanding of the important themes covered in this segment of the course. You will be graded according to organization, accuracy, and understanding of the material. Be aware that I might combine 2 of these topics into 1 question. Topics will be drawn from the following:

1. The nature, extent, and significance of Akhenaten's reforms.
2. The causes of the end of the New Kingdom.
3. Middle Kingdom government and society
4. Egypt and the outside world during the New Kingdom