Message from mkang

[Anonymous]

I reviewed the educational video, "Asia's Global Influence" (Discovery School). It is divided up into 5 sections (subtopics):
1. Kublai Khan's promotion of the merchant class in the 13th century
2. The growing desertification problem in China and what China is doing to offset desertification.
3. A tour of Hong Kong by the film star, Jackie Chan in which he points out all of the wonderful attractions, customs, and cultural blending between east and west in Hong Kong.
4. An explanation of why Korea is divided up into North and South and how their economies developed.
5. The extended family in Vietnam and the important role that filial piety plays in society, even as people move away from the country and into the city.

This is a very middle school friendly video that can be used as an introduction to Asian studies or within the study of different parts and aspects of Asia.

Before each segment, the viewer sees middle school aged young people discussing what they know about the subtopics. For example, before the China section, you listen to kids discussing what they remember learning about China.

I think that students will be especially drawn to the Hong Kong section, guided by Jackie Chan. He does a really nice job of explaining how Hong Kong is a blend between ancient Chinese traditions and new western ideas. The wet markets where people choose their food while its still living would fascinate students.

The section on China's "Green Wall" was the most interesting to me. I think it would also be interesting to students because they hear about deforestation, but not desertification.

Anyway, this is a great resource for 7th World History. It extends what is found in the textbook, while providing more information. It's on sale at Discoveryschool.com for $9.95 (while supplies last!)