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Building the Great Wall — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging history reading passage explores the dramatic rise of Qin Shi Huang, the First Emperor of China, and the origins of the Great Wall. Students will learn about the unification of China, the emperor's bold reforms, and the human cost of building one of the world's most famous structures. The passage integrates evidence from ancient records and archaeological discoveries, addresses the impact on daily life and geography, and highlights the significance of the Qin Dynasty's achievements. Aligned to CA HSS 6.6 and CCSS RI.6.1, this resource supports analytical reading and writing skills, and includes a read aloud audio and a Spanish translation. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, explanatory writing prompts, and graphic organizers to deepen understanding of cause and effect and historical evidence. Ideal for developing critical history skills and vocabulary in middle school classrooms.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Qinshihuangdi3 — Qin Shi Huang, the First Emperor of China
Source: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Qin Shi Huang, the First Emperor of China, changed the course of Chinese history in 221 BCE when he unified warring states into a single powerful empire. His rule marked the beginning of the Qin Dynasty, which introduced new laws, systems, and monumental construction projects. One of his most famous achievements is the creation of the Great Wall of China, a massive defense structure that still stands today.

Before Qin Shi Huang's rise, China was divided into several rival kingdoms. Constant warfare threatened stability, trade, and daily life. Qin Shi Huang conquered these states using advanced military tactics and new weapons like crossbows. Once unified, he set out to strengthen his control. He standardized weights, measures, currency, and writing, making communication and trade easier across his vast territory. These changes helped create a stronger, more centralized government.

One of the greatest challenges the new empire faced was defending its northern border from nomadic groups such as the Xiongnu. To solve this problem, Qin Shi Huang ordered the construction of a massive wall. Workers, including soldiers, peasants, and even prisoners, were forced to build the wall under harsh conditions. Ancient records like the "Records of the Grand Historian" by Sima Qian describe the suffering and determination involved in this task. Archaeologists have found remains of tamped earth walls and watchtowers that date back to the Qin Dynasty, confirming the scale of the project.

The Great Wall was not a single continuous wall at first but a series of connected barriers, built mainly with earth and stone. Over time, later dynasties like the Han and Ming rebuilt and expanded the wall, using bricks and stronger materials. The wall served not only as a military defense but also as a symbol of the emperor’s power and the unity of the Chinese people. While the construction was costly and dangerous—many workers lost their lives—it helped protect China and allowed culture and trade to flourish within the empire.

Qin Shi Huang’s reign was short but left a lasting impact. His harsh policies and massive projects shaped the future of China, influencing later emperors and dynasties. The Great Wall remains a powerful reminder of the challenges and achievements of ancient China. The story of its creation connects directly to themes of leadership, innovation, and the relationship between people and their environment.

Interesting Fact: Did You Know? Qin Shi Huang also built a vast mausoleum guarded by thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers, discovered by farmers in 1974 near Xi’an.

Who was the first emperor of China?

Qin Shi HuangHan WudiConfuciusGenghis Khan

What was a main reason for building the wall?

To defend against nomadsTo improve tradeFor religious reasonsTo divide kingdoms

What did Qin Shi Huang standardize?

Currency and writingOnly religionOnly languageOnly farming

Who built most of the wall?

Soldiers and workersOnly emperorsMerchantsArtists

What is a mausoleum?

A large tombA palaceA cityA market

Why did the Great Wall become a symbol?

Showed unity and powerFor farmingFor sportsAs a school