LESSON 2

Evidences of Science and Technology

during Ancient Times
(3500 B.C.- 1200 in the Old World)

Content Standard:
The learners demonstrate an understanding of the development of Science and Technology during Ancient
times.

Learning Outcomes:
The students will be able to:
1. Describe the development of Science and technology during ancient times;
2. Determine and recognize the significance of the development of Science and technology during
ancient times and its impact to society.

Word Bank:
Sumerian, clay, tablet, cuneiform, Babylonia, Hammurabi, Egyptian, Hieroglyphics, embalming

DISCUSSION:
First civilizations emerged independent of one another along fertile river valleys in Mesopotamia
(Tigris-Euphrates), Egypt (Nile), China (Huang Ho Valley), and India. People of each civilization
developed a unique way of life, religion, form of government, language and system of writing, arts and
crafts, advances of science and technology: astronomy, agriculture, medicine, mathematics, engineering,
and architecture. They grew plants and domesticated animals and settled down in places.

I. Sumerian civilization (Sumer, Mesopotamia (Iraq)

Location: Sumer was the southernmost region of ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq and
Kuwait). It is cradle of the world’s earliest known civilization and was first established in the
region in about 3600 BC. It is also known as the ‘the first cities’ in the world. It transformed
families into tribes that occupied territories which soon became cities and later were called the
states.
 Science and Technology Development:
a. Cuneiform is the first writing systems it is a set of word pictures depicted in symbols
made of triangular marks around 3100 BC. Pictograms or drawings representing actual
things, were the basis for cuneiform writing.
b. Sumerian clay tablet—contains the Sumerian historical information and culture. It
began as record keeping for trade and evolved into the use of symbols for writing down
laws and stories.
c. The concept of the wheel—actually grew out of a mechanical device that the
Sumerians had invented shortly after 3500 B.C.—the potter’s wheel. This was a heavy
flat disk made of hardened clay. It was spun horizontally on an axis to allow the potter
to form evenly. The Sumerians simply turn this clay-splattered wheel on its end and
hook it to a wagon to make a wheel as a means of practical method for moving objects
from one location to another.

d. Sailboat—was also first invented by Ancient Mesopotamia. Five thousand years ago
Mesopotamians started using sailing boats. Since Mesopotamia was situated between
two famous rivers, namely the Euphrates and the Tigris, they needed water
transportation for travel and trade.
e. The Sumerians were among the first astronomers, mapping the movement of stars,
planets and moon into sets of constellations, many of which survived in the zodiac and
were also recognized by the ancient Greeks.
f. Sumerians were also recognized for building the foundations of logic, mathematics,
agriculture engineering, architecture, transportation and medicine;
g. Sexagesimal system of counting in units of 60 which served as the basis of 360-degree
circle and the 60-minute hour
h. Developed systematized technique of farming: seed plow and irrigation
i. Wool from sheep made into textiles, mastered the arts of bleaching and dyeing
II. Babylonian Civilization
Location: Babylonia was the ancient region bordering the Tigris and Euphrates river (Iraq).
Babylon is the capital, and served as commercial and religious center in the Tigris-Euphrates
valley.
 Science and Technology Development:

a. Hammurabi (1792-1750 B.C), the first leader of the old Babylonian Empire,
promulgated the famous law code that served as rule and standards which helped
maintain a period of stability in this region, as well as the establishment of science
and technology.
b. Nebuchadnezzar II was the Neo Babylonian Emperor who ordered the
construction of the famous “hanging Gardens of Babylons” (one of the seven
wonders of the world) and the Isthar Gate.
c. Contributed to the development of science and technology such as: irrigation
system of canals flanked by earthen dikes; system of book keeping, double entry
accounting, multiplication and division tables and calculations using geometry.
d. Adopted the Sumerian sexagesimal system of counting in units of 60; made
accurate predictions of solar and lunar eclipses and other astronomical phenomena.

III. Egyptian Civilization

Location: Situated in the northeastern part of the African continent, Egypt is located along the
Nile River which provided a fertile delta.

Science and Technology Development:

Ancient Egypt depended on the waters of the River Nile, which flows through harsh
and arid desert. The Nile river gave life to the civilization of Egypt. The early settlers were
animal hunters, they were nomadic. Later changed their lifestyle to be farmland settlers.
Agriculture was supported mainly by extensive irrigation system.

Ancient Egyptians learned to heat metal ore (copper, gold and bronze) and made
weapons and utensils. They may have been the first people to learn how to make glass(glass-
blowing). They learned how to heat sand in very hot furnace and then blow the molten sand
into glass. They made glass jars and glass beads.

Egyptian writing wrote with ink and brushes on paper made of papyrus reeds; their
writing was in the form of pictorial symbols known as hieroglyphics. Their knowledge of
human anatomy, physiology, surgery and medical plants enabled them to master the art and
science of embalming their dead.

Created the calendar based on the phases of the moon, consisting of 29 and ½ days.
The first 365-day calendar was devised by IMHOTEP, early in the Old Kingdom. They were
the first to divide the day into 24 hours, calculated the time by means of water clock, Their,
 interest in Astronomy was focused on the stars and early calendar was based on the appearance
and disappearance of stars Sirius, the brightest in their horizon which coincide with the annual
rise and fall of the Nile river, help them forecast the seasons and predict the annual flooding
on the Nile river.

They were engaged in Pottery of various shapes and sizes artistically done such as
pots, jars, cups and bowls, they built houses made of sun dried mud bricks. Pyramids still stand
today as the monumental evidence of the scientific expertise and technical skills of the ancient
Egyptians in geometry; engineering, architecture and labor management. Iconic monuments
such as the Giza Necropolis and its Great Sphinx, as well as the Ruins of Memphis, and the
valley of the Kings, reflect this legacy and remain a significant focus of archaeological study.
The Giza Necropolis is the oldest of the ancient wonders and the only still in existence.

The Egyptians also engaged in ship building; Construction of canals, dikes, and ditches
with outlet system; Planted wheat, barley. Food was broiled, baked, stewed, fried, grilled or
roasted. They bred ducks, geese, pigs, goats, cattle and sheep; Manufactured soaps, creams,
oils, perfumes and eye make-up.

Pyramid papyrus

IV. Cretan (Minoan) Civilization

Location: arose on the island of Crete and other Aegean islands such as Santorini and
flourished from approximately 2600 to 1400 BC. It was rediscovered at the beginning of the
20th century through the work of British archeologist Arthur Evans. Will Durant referred to it
as “the first link in the European chain”. Minoan civilization was an Aegean Bronze Age
civilization, ruled by King Minos. Knossos was the capital of Crete, the grandest site of
Bronze age places, built between 2100 and 1575 B.C. Crete is a mountainous island with
natural harbors located midway between Turkey, Egypt, and Greece.

Science and Technology Development:

The Minoans were primarily a mercantile people engaged in overseas trade. Their
culture, from 1700 BC onward, shows a high degree of organization. Many historians and
archaeologists believe that the Minoans were involved in the Bronze Age’s important tin
trade: tin, alloyed with copper apparently was from Cyprus. Crete became the central
exporter of wine, oil, jewelry, and highly crafted works; in turn, they became importers of
raw materials and food. In the process they built the first major navy ship in the world. Its
primary purpose, however, was trade, not war or conquest.

The Minoans made sophisticated carved statues, ceramics, frescoes, jewels, and
inscriptions on the showed their knowledge of mathematics, engineering, and architecture
which were applied scientifically and artistically. They constructed well drainage system,
public halls, courtyards, and religious shrines. They were skilled in ship building.

The Minoan cities were connected with stone-paved roads, formed from blocks cut with
bronze saws. Streets were with good drainage and water and sewer facilities were available
to the upper class, through clay pipes. Houses built from sandstone, gypsum, or limestone
often had flat tiled roofs; plaster, wood, or flagstone floors, that stood two or three story’s
high, Typically the lower walls were constructed of stone and rubble, and the upper walls of
mudbrick. Ceiling timbers held up the roofs.

The Minoans raised cattle, sheep and goats and grew wheat, barley, lettuce, celery,
asparagus, carrots, pears, grapes, peas, figs, olives and poppies for poppy seed and perhaps
opium. The Minoans also domesticated bees.

They developed Mediterranean polyculture, the practice of growing more than one
crop at a time. Their more varied and healthy diet resulted in the growth of population.
Theoretically this method of farming would maintain the fertility of the soil, as well as offer
protection against low yields in any single crop.

Around 1600, B.C., Akrotiri was shaken by a violent earthquake. Sometime later, an
eruption occurred. The Tehran eruption was one of largest in human history-blasting more
than 10 million tons of ash, gas, and rock 25 miles into the atmosphere. Incredibly, despite
Crete’s close proximity to the volcano, the debris from Thera largely missed the major
Minoan towns. 50 years later the civilization was wiped out. Earthquakes and fires destroyed
Knossos and the other palaces and the towns were deserted.

DO YOU KNOW?

Clay tablets were used as a writing medium, especially for writing in cuneiform.
Cuneiform characters were imprinted on a wet clay tablet with a stylus to place simple
shapes and lines into moist clay, which were then baked until hard. This form of writing
became known as cuneiform because of the wedge-shaped markings made in the clay. The
Sumerians had enormous libraries of clay tables containing their laws, business, transactions,
and literature.

Obelisk is a tall, four-sided narrow tapering monument which ends in a pyramid-

like shape at the top. These were originally called “tekhenu” by the builders of the Ancient
Egyptians.

Sundial or shadow clock was used by the Egyptian about 1000-1500 BC. This
instrument will tell time by means of the shadow casted by the object as reflected by the sun.
The gnomon is the shadow-producing device, usually a metal plate set parallel to the earth’s
axis and pointing toward the celestial pole.
 Check your understanding!

Name: _________________________________ Section: ___________________________

Activity 1 COMPARE AND CONTRAST

Procedure:

1. Compare and Contrast the following.

A. Sumerian and Egyptian

B. Calligraphy and Hieroglyphics

C. Minoans and Egyptian agriculture

D. Sumerian Astronomy and Egyptian Astronomy

E. Minoans construction/architecture and Egyptian construction/architecture

Name: ____________________________________ Section: ______________________________

ACTIVITY 2: QUIZ
Multiple choice: Write the letter of the correct answer.
1. It contains the Sumerian historical information and culture;
A. Samsung tablet
B. Clay tablet
C. Adobe
D. Soil tablet

2. What civilization started the building of pyramids?

A. Egyptian
B. Sumerian
C. Greek
D. Chinese

3. Which civilization is it where writing system using word picture and symbols to represent
information was established?
A. Egyptian
B. Sumerian
C. Greek
D. Chinese

4. The first writing system of the Sumerian civilization was called:

A. Alphabet
B. Cuneiform
C. Arabic
D. Chinese

5. Which did not occur during Sumerian civilization?

A. Cuneiform
B. Architectural design
C. Medicine
D. Mapping of the stars to set constellation
6. Which does not belong to the group?
A. Papyrus
B. Obelisks
C. Mummification
D. Acupuncture

7. Which did not occur in Egypt?

A. Ship building
B. Glass making
C. Embalming
D. Water clock

8. Which country is located along Nile river?

A. Cretan
B. Sumer
C. Egypt
D. Babylonia

9. They grew wheat, barley, lettuce, figs and grapes;

A. Cretan
B. Egyptian
C. Sumerian
D. Babylonian

10. What natural disaster wiped out the Cretans?

A. Typhoon
B. Earthquake
C. Volcanic eruption
D. War
 Check your understanding!

Name: _________________________________ Section: ______________________________

1. Make a TIMELINE of the EVENTS of the development of science and technology for the
following civilization:

A. Sumerian civilization
B. Egyptian civilization
C. Cretan civilization
 LESSON 3

The Contribution of Greek, Persian and Romans

in the Development of Science and Technology

Content Standard:
The learners demonstrate an understanding of the contribution of the Greek, Persians and Romans to
the development of Science and Technology.

Learning Outcomes:
The students will be able to:
1. Describe the development of Science and Technology that occurred in Greece, Persia, and
Rome;
2. Explicate and recognize the significance of the contribution of Greeks, Persians, and Romans to
the development of Science and Technology.

Word Bank:
Greek philosophers, scala naturae, Almagest, Pythagorean Theorem, Nas’taliq”, skepticism,
Persian rugs.

DISCUSSION
I. Classical Greek Philosophers (400 B.C.-400 A.D.)
Location: Greece is a country in Southern Europe located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia,
and Africa. Its mainland is located at the southernmost tip of the Balkan Peninsula.
Science and Technology Development:
Here are some of the Great Greek Philosophers that helped in the development of science
and technology during Ancient times.

A. Thales of Miletus (638-548 B.C.) developed the theory of matter based upon water.

B. Socrates (470-399 B.C) emphasized the study of human nature in relation to society;
established the theory of skepticism.
C. Empedocles (493-433 B.C.) assumed that there were more than one kind of matter and
postulated four roots of elements: earth, air, fire and water.
D. Hippocrates about 400 B.C. started the science of medicine and is known as the greatest
physician of antiquity and regarded as the father of medicine. He stated that diseases have
natural causes and the body has the power to repair itself. His name is always associated
with Hippocratic Oath, an oath traditionally taken by newly graduate physicians to
observe the ethical standards of their profession, specifically to seek to preserve life.
E. Aristotle (384-322 B.C) regarded as the father of Biology, undertook a large-scale
classification of plants and animals. He introduced a method of scientific thinking that
still plays a role today. Engrossed himself in studying many areas of science like Physics,
Astronomy, Meteorology, etc. His “scala naturae” or Great Chain of Being is one of the
first theories in biology. The species form a scale from simple to complex putting animals
that laid warm and wet creatures alive as the highest form but evolution is not possible.
F. Archimedes (287-212 B.C.)- performs experiments which led him to discover the laws
of the lever and the pulley that resulted in the invention of machines which could easily
move loads. He calculated the value of pi, which was a geometrical calculation that
helped determine the width, or circumference of a circle. He excelled in geometry,
calculus, theoretical mathematics, hydrostatics and displacement.
G. Ptolemy, about 100 A.D.- one of the greatest astronomers who founded the Geocentric
theory (Earth-centered) and wrote the Almagest.
H. Democritus- developed atomic theory; elaborated idea that matter consisted of atoms.
I. Pythagoras (497-581 B.C.) Mathematician, held that numbers were basic to matter; the
Pythagorean Theorem.
J. Plato – dealt with the nature of the universe; ascribed geometric forms composed of
bounding planes to the elements of earth, fire, air and water based upon their physical
properties.
K. Aristarchus: Both a mathematician and an astronomer, Aristarchus discovered new
theories about the way the planets move in their orbits. Aristarchus thought that even
though the earth revolved around the sun, it also spun on its own axis, or spin-point, as it
followed its orbit around the sun.
L. Hipparchus – discovered the length of the month which is only one second off from the
length that we use today.
M. Eratosthenes – determined that the circumference of (the distance around) the earth was
28,000 miles, which is only three thousand miles more than what we know today.
N. Theophrastus – regarded as father of plant science, wrote “History of Plants” in which
he described the forms, behavior, morphology, and properties of some 500 food and
medicinal plants. Most outstanding botanist of the early botany. He wrote “Causes of
Plants” in which he described grafting methods, seeds, effect of temperature upon plants.
The manuscript also deals with the medicinal uses of plant.
 II. Persian Civilization
Location: Persia is the former name of Iran. The Persian Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great
in the 6th century BC, was the largest empire of the ancient world, stretching from the borders
of India and China in the east to large parts of Greece and Libya in the west. The culture of
Persians is one of the oldest in the Middle East.

Science and Technology Development:

Location: Persia has one of the richest art heritages in the world history and encompasses
many disciplines including architecture, painting, weaving, pottery, calligraphy, metal
working and stonemasonry. Persian rugs have always been a vital part of the Persian
culture.

a. Nas’taliq is the most beautiful Persian Calligraphy style and also technically the most
complicated. Even the second popular Persian calligraphy style i.e.,” Cursive Nas’taliq”
or “Shekasteh Nas’taliq”.
b. Pottery – The taste and talent of the Persian people can be seen through the designs of
their earthen wares, ceramic art objects such as figures, tiles, and tableware made from
clay and other raw materials.
c. Domes – were an important part and constructed on the first large-scale in Persia. The
outer surfaces of the domes are mostly mosaic faced, which creates a magical view.
d. Various structures such as mosques, mausoleums, bazaars, bridges, and different
palaces have mainly survived from this period.
e. A wind tower is chimney-like structure positioned above the house to catch the
prevailing wind.

III. Roman Civilization

Location: Rome is the capital of Italy. Roman civilization is characterized by a government
headed by emperors and large territorial holdings around the Mediterranean Sea in Europe,
Africa and Asia. Today it is known as the “the eternal city”. Latin is the language spoken by
Romans.
Science and Technology Development:
a. The Romans used water power, and watermills for making cereals milling, sawing
timber and crushing ore. They exploited wood and coal for heating.
b. The Romans made great use of aqueducts, dams, bridges, and amphitheaters.
c. The Romans constructed numerous aqueducts to supply water. The city of Rome itself
was supplied with eleven aqueducts made of limestone that provided the city with over
million cubic meters of water each day, sufficient for 3.5 million people even in modern-
day times.
d. Romans dedicated their many resources to the study of astronomy, astrology,
geography, and other sciences. Their contributions were crucial to future generations and
have helped us collect the knowledge we have today.
e. Ancient Roman used sundials to tell time and even created portable versions. They also
used tools for measuring, manual drills, and metal spikes (used as snails).
f. Advanced glassblowing techniques brought new technology to Rome in the form
of window glass, hanging glass oil lamps, and other objects made of glass.
g. Rome’s military benefited from technological improvements to weapons, shields, armor,
and other items.
h. Some of the Notable Roman Scientists

1. Galen (129-199 AD.)— great physician and surgeon; Galen influenced the
development of various scientific disciplines, including anatomy, physiology,
pathology, pharmacology, and neurology, as well as philosophy and logic.
2. Vitruvius is another writer whose work has provided us with important knowledge
about Ancient Rome. He was also an architect and an engineer, sometimes referred to
as first architect.
3. Pliny – described almost a thousand species of plants, most of which were highly
valued for their medicinal uses.
 DO YOU KNOW?

PERSIAN RUGS
A Persian carpet or Persian rug is a heavy textile, made for a wide variety of utilitarian and
symbolic purpose, produced in Iran (Persia) either for home use or for sale. Carpet weaving is an
essential part of Persian culture. Persian carpets and rugs of various types are famous for their elaborate
colours and artistical design, and are treasured in museums and private collections all over the world
today.

ROMAN ROADS
The Romans primarily built concrete roads for their military. Nearly 30 highways, all made of
stone, exited the great city. They made 372 roads and connected 113 provinces.
Name: _____________________________________ Section: _____________________________

ACTIVITY 1: FILL IN THE BLANKS

Choose from the box the scientist who made contribution to the following development in science and
technology.

Carpet weaving Eratosthenes Socrates Aristotle

Galen Nastaliq Hippocrates Vitruvius

Archimedes Theophrastus Ptolemy

__________1. He is known as the father of medicine.

__________2. He performs experiments which led him to discover the laws of the lever and the pulley
That resulted in the invention of machines which could easily move loads.

__________3. He founded the Geocentric theory (Earth-centered) and wrote the Almagest.

__________4. He determined that the circumference of (the distance around) the earth was 28,000
miles more than what we know today.

___________5. He influenced the development of various scientific disciplines, including anatomy,

physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and neurology.

___________6. Persian rugs

___________7. He worked on Skepticism

___________8. He theorized that species form a scale from simple to complex putting animals that laid
warm and wet creatures alive as the highest form of living things.

___________9. He is regarded as the First architect of Rome.

__________10. He is known as the ancient father of Plants Science

 Check your Understanding!

Name: ________________________________ Section: _______________________

ACTIVITY 2: Answer the following questions.

1. What are the contributions of Persia to the development of science and technology?

2. Name Greek Philosophers whose study or contribution led to the study of Astronomy.

3. What is the difference between Socrates’ Skepticism and Platos’ Idealism?

4. Explain the contribution and influence made by Galen in the development of science and
technology?

5. Compare and contrast the theory of Ptolemy and Copernicus

6. What are the contributions made by Archimedes?

7. What are the significance of aqueducts, dams, roads and bridges built by the Romans?
 LESSON 4
_____________________________________________________________________________

The Contribution of Arabs, Chinese and Hindu in the

Development of Science and Technology

Content Standard:

The learners demonstrate an understanding of the contributions of the Arabs, Chinese and Hindu in the
development on Science and Technology.

Learning Outcomes:

The students will be able to:

1. Describe the development of science and technology that occurred in Arabs, Chinese and
Hindu.
2. Explicate and recognize the significance of the contribution of Arabs, Chinese and Hindu in the
development of Science and Technology.

Word Bank:

Theory of relativity, seismological detectors, cross bow, heliocentric theory of gravitation, camera
obscura, gunpowder, oracle bone

DISCUSSION:

I. Arabic Civilization
Location: Originated in the Arabian Peninsula, Saudi Arabia in 622 A.D. Arabic is
the written and spoken language of the Arabs. At present there are 22 Arabic-
speaking countries: Algeria, Bahrain, Comoro Islands, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan,
Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi
Arabia, Somalia, Syria, Tunasia, UAE and Yemen. Their religion Islam means
“submission to the will of God”. God Allah conveyed to Muhammad, a tradesman,
a series of revelations which were to form the basis of the new faith.
Science and Technology Development:
 Trigonometry, Sine, Tangent, Co-Tangent – Ibn Moosaa’s work Hisaab- Al Jab-
Wal Muqaabala (The Calculation of Integration and Equation) presented 800
examples in the 8th century CE. His work was translated from Arabic into Latin and
until the 16th century CE. It was Europe’s main textbook on the subject.
 Astronomy – invented an instrument used to observe star called Astrolabe
 Architecture – built before the great Mosque of Damascus
 Water Wheel
 Water Irrigation
 Algebra and Geometry – Muhammad bin Moosaa Al- Khawaarizmi is considered
to be one of the founders of Algebra. The word ‘Algorithm’ or ‘Algorizm’ is a
corruption of his name or the name of the town Khwaarizm (Kheva), in what is now
Uzbekistan, where he was born. In addition to introducing the Arabic numerals, he
developed several arithmetical procedures, including operations on fractions.
 Physics and Chemistry – Kamaaluddeen examined the refraction of sunlight in
raindrops and offered an explanation of the genesis of primary and secondary
rainbows.
 Haaroon Ar-Rasheed was associated with the story of the invention of the
pendulum and the presentation of a water clock to Emperor Charlemagne.
 Science and Mechanics – The development of the science of mechanics in Islam
is an act of genius. Moosaa bin Shaakir described one hundred pieces of mechanical
equipment in his book of artifices.
 Camera Obscura – In the field of optics, this was invented by Ibn Haytham in
1038 CE.
 Theory of Relativity- Qaadhi Abu Bakr developed the theory of relativity in the
8th century CE in terms of time and space by means of mathematical equations and
astrophysics. Imagine, Einstein who was not even born yet at the time, propounded
the same theory of relativity much later in the 20th century.
 Paper Making – This was one of the earliest skills attained by the Muslims. As
early as the 8th century CE, high quality paper was being manufactured in
Samarqand. Egypt was known to have its first paper mill in the year 900 CE.
 Advances in Industry – Muslims were leading in weaving wool, producing silk,
pottery, jewelry, and in leather and perfume industry.

II. Chinese Civilization:

Location: Ancient China was built along the two main rivers—first the Yellow River
(Huang He) in the north, and later the Yangtze in the south. China is one of the oldest
civilizations and the world’s most populous country (Asia), with a population of over
1.35 billion.

Science and Technology Development:

Various forms of science such as astronomy, physics, chemistry, meteorology, seismology,
have originated from China.
Chinese contributions to science and technology:

 Paper and Chinese calligraphy began writing about 1500 BC. The earliest writing
that we know of from China was on animal bones, which are called “oracle bones”
because they were used to tell the future.
 Place value number system-decimal or base ten system was first developed by the
Chinese. The earliest invention was the abacus, a calculator that used sliding beads
to help compute math problems quickly.
 The first recorded observations of comets, solar eclipses, were done in China.
 Invented kites and lanterns.
 The clock was first devised for astronomical purposes. The first ever clock had a
puppet which would hold up a plate that would tell the time. Also giant water clocks
which rang every 15 minutes were invented.
 Magnetic Compass: The compass was a wooden circle with markings on it, and a
magnetic spoon on top, used for religious purposes.
 Gunpowder: Scientists made gunpowder by mixing Sulphur, charcoal and
potassium nitrate. The reason gunpowder explodes is that it burns very fast, and
when it burns it releases gases that are bigger in volume than the original powder.
 Fireworks were actually bamboo cases filled with gunpowder with a fuse on the
side. Fireworks were initially used only for shows. Later on they were used to scare
off enemies during the war.
 Kites were first invented in China during Chou dynasty. Kites were first made of
bamboo and silk. Chinese people flew kites for fun and also during war to carry
messages to signal people and also to carry explosives in besieged cities. Chinese
put kites to use as hang gliders by cutting the cord. The gliders were strong enough
to sustain the weight of a man.
 Seismological detectors – Zhang Heng invented the earthquake detecting tool
called seismoscope. His seismoscope was a giant bronze vessel resembling a kettle
almost 6 feet in diameter. On the outside, the machine had eight dragons facing
down marking the primary directions of the compass. In each dragon’s mouth was
a bronze ball. Beneath the dragons sat eight bronze toads with their broad mouths
gaping to receive the balls.
 Cross bow is a bow set horizontally on a stock. When the shooter releases a
mechanism, the crossbow fires arrows or bolts forced by the mechanical energy of
previously stretched bowstring.
 Fans were made of bamboo spines that stick out in the shape of a semicircle with
silk wrapped around it. Fans were mostly used by women and soldiers.
 Paper and Printing: Their early script contained 80,000 different characters. They
went on to invent books and had book shops in every city by the end of the Tang
dynasty. There were 3 different kinds of paper, the first being silk rags, the cheap
kinds were the wooden strips, and the most expensive was silk cloth.
 Seed Drill: Seed drills were used by farmers to plant seeds into the soil at uniform
depth. Without this tool, farmers otherwise would toss the seeds with hands over
the ground resulting in wastage and uneven growth.
  Iron Plough: This was one of the major developments in ancient Chinese
agriculture. It was first developed in 4th century BC. Later on it was more popular
and used commonly during the Han dynasty.
 Porcelain: This is made of special white clay which has a lot of kaolin in it. The
clay is put on fire at very high temperature. The temperature is kept so high that
some of the clay melts and becomes shiny and translucent like glass(Pottery).
 Silk was made from the cocoons of silkworms. The Chinese managed to keep the
process for making silk a secret for hundreds of years. Silk was a soft and light
material much desired by the wealthy throughout the world.
 Wheelbarrows are basically hand driven vehicles with two handles on the rear side
for a person to push ahead. It is mostly used in the Construction Industry.
Wheelbarrows were in use in China right from the Ancient times during the Han
dynasty. Chuko Liang was the inventor of wheelbarrow. Liang was a general who
used the wheelbarrows to transport supplies and injured soldiers. The Chinese
wheelbarrows had two wheels and required two men to drive and steer.
 Other inventions included umbrella, iron casting, hot air balloon, matches, stirrups
for riding horses, and acupuncture. A clear coating called lacquer was also made to
protect and enhance certain works of art and furniture. Paper money was first
developed and used in China during the Tang dynasty (7th century).

III. Indus-Hindu Civilization

Location: Early civilization in India emerged in river valleys, the valleys of the Indus
River supported a flourishing civilization that extended hundreds of miles from the Himalayas
to the coast of Arabian Sea.

Science and Technology Development:

Two of the major cities were: Harappa and Mohenyo-Daro. At its height
Harappa had 35,000 inhabitants and Mohenyo-Daro had perhaps 35,000 to 40,000 inhabitants.

Evidence showed that Indus valley civilization have public wells provided
With regular supply of water for all the inhabitants and sanitation. All houses had their own
private toilet which was connected to a covered sewer network constructed on brickwork held
together with gypsum based mortar that emptied into the surrounding or into a cesspit. Also
evident was the presence of public and private baths, sewage and sophisticated water
management system.

In 500 AD. Aryabhata presented astronomical and mathematical system that

took the earth to spin on its axis and considered the motions of the planets with respect to the
sun(heliocentric) are elliptical. He also made an accurate approximation of the Earth’s
circumference and diameter, and also discovered how the lunar eclipse and solar eclipse happen
for the first time. He also propounded the Heliocentric theory of gravitation, thus predating
Copernicus by almost one thousand years.
 Brahmagupta (598-668) was the head of the astronomical observatory at Ujjain;
estimated in the 7th century that the circumference of the earth was 5000 yojanas or the estimate
of 36,000 km which comes quite close to the actual circumference known today. He had said
about gravity that “Bodies fall towards the Earth as it in the nature of the earth to attract bodies,
just as it is in nature to flow”. He also made calculations of eclipses of the Sun and the Moon.

In 1984, Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian to go to outer space.

The Hindus use a system of 27 or 28 Nakshatras (Lunar constellations) to calculate a month.
Each month can be divided into 30 lunar tithis (days). There are usually 360 or 366 days in a
year.
The Hindus use a system of 27 or 28 Nakshatras (lunar constellations) to calculate a
month. Each month can be divided into 30 lunar tithis (days). There are usually 360 or 366 days
in a year.

The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is actually one of six major observatories built by the
Maharajah. The one in Jaipur not only follows the movements of the sun and the moon to help
determine auspicious dates of events, it also helps map out the position of the stars in the sky.
 DO YOU KNOW?

Ancient India was an early leader in metallurgy, as evidenced by the

wrought iron Pillar of Delhi.

Astrolabe – The Astrolabe is an ancient instrument that measures the

positions of stars and the solar system.
 Check your understanding!
Activity 1: MATCHING TYPE

Write the correct letter of your answer on the space provided before the number.

COLUMN A COLUMN B

_______1. Trigonometry, Sine, Tangent, Co-Tangent A. Zhang Heng

______2. Algebra and Geometry B. Chinese inventions

______3. invention of the pendelum of a water clock C. Brahmagupta

______4. Theory of Relativity D. Aryabhata

______5. Chinese writing on bones E. Haaroon Ar-Rasheed

______6. Gunpowder and fireworks G. Ibn Moosaa

______7. Seimoscope H. Qaadhi Abu Bakr

______8. Porcelain and pottery I. “oracle bones “

______9. Hindu astronomical and mathematical system

_____10. He estimated the circumference of the earth

Check your understanding!

BLOG IT

Procedure:

Choose one remarkable development from Arabic, Chinese and Hindu science and technology and
make a flyer/poster interpreting their contributions. (if possible by pair)
 LESSON 5
Evidences of Science and Technology
during Pre- Columbian Times
(1500 B.C.- A.D. 1500 in the New World)

Content Standard:
The learners demonstrate an understanding of the development of Science and Technology during
Pre- Columbian times.

Learning Outcomes:

The students will be able to:

1. Describe the development of Science and technology made by the Olmec, Mayans, Inca and Aztecs;
2. Explicate and recognize the significance of the contribution of Olmec, Mayans, Aztecs and Inca in
the development of science and technology.

Word Bank:
Olmec, Mayans, Aztecs, Inca, rubber people, quipu, Badianus manuscript, Quechua.

DISCUSSION:

1. Olmec Civilization
Location: The first great Mesoamerican civilization. They thrived along Southern gulf coast of
Mexico, mainly in the present-day states of Veracruz and Tabasco, from about 1200 to 400 B.C.
Culture was greatly influential on later societies, such as the Maya and the Aztec.

Science and Technology Development:

The name “Olmec” means “rubber people” in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztec. The term
“rubber people” refers to ancient practice, spanning from ancient Olmecs to Aztecs, of extracting latex
from Castilla elastic, a rubber tree in the area. The juice of a local vine, Ipomea alba, was then mixed with
this latex to create rubber as early as 1600 BCE.

Olmecs constructed permanent city-temple complexes at San Lorenzo Tenochtitlan, La Venta,

Tres Zapotes, and Laguna de los Cerros. The principal architectural structure found in La Venta ruins was
the vast clay pyramid decorated with elaborate carvings. Common among places is the colossal heads that
is made from basalt which symbolizes thrones. There are also monuments and other major pieces of Olmec
art such as mask and figurines.

Olmecs are known to cultivate cacao, rubber, and salt. It is also observed that they are using an
elaborate water and drainage system. They manufacture chocolate drinks.
 There are evidences that suggest the Olmec practiced human sacrifice and cannibalism; The
calendar used in Mexico may also have originated from the Olmec. They also studied astronomy since
they are obsessed with the timing of religious ritual. Animal gods were features of Olmec culture.

Olmec traded goods such as obsidian, ceramics, jade, serpentine, mica, rubber, pottery, feathers
and polished mirrors of limenite and magnetite.
La Venta went into decline around 400 B.C and the Olmec civilization vanished along with it.

2. Maya Civilization
Location: The ancient Mayans are a diverse group of indigenous people who lived in parts of
present- day Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. It is regarded as one of the
most important pre-Columbian Mesoamerican cultures. The Mayas are credited with a number of
remarkable scientific achievements in various scientific fields such as astronomy, medicine, and
mathematics.

Science and Technology Development:

a. The Mayan not only made the great progress in agriculture, but also made a big break in
technology.
b. The architectural and engineering skills were manifested in the grandeur of their tall pyramids of
limestones, with small temples on the top constructed like an arch supported by two side walls
bridged by a row of flat stones and ornamented by steeples or roof combs. They are usually made
of cherts, obsidian, silified limestone, and jade.
c. As far as astronomy was concerned, they tracked the movement of the stars and planets across the
sky, and were able to accurately predict celestial events such as eclipses. To the Mayan, Venus
was the most important astronomical object.
d. The Mayans also discovered an accurate calendar. The ritual calendar that developed in
Mesoamerica used a count of 260 days. This calendar gave each day a name, much like our days
of the week. There were 20 day names, represented by their respective symbols.
e. The written language of the Mayan was made up of about 800 glyphs, or symbols. Each one
represented a word or a syllable, and could be combined with the others in an almost infinite
number of ways. As a result, there were three or four different ways to write almost every word in
the Mayan language.
f. The Mayans were also talented in building elaborate temples and great cities without the essential
tools like metal. It is believed that Mayans were producing rubber products.

3. Aztec Civilization

Location: The Aztecs established their city of Tenochtitlan, present-day Mexico City in 1325 A.D.
The Aztecs are best known as a violent people who expanded their empire through ruthless
warfare. They also had a reputation of making human sacrifices in elaborate rituals that often
involved the removal of beating hearts, to appease their many gods.
They practiced a highly organized system of government and a language- Nahuatl
Science and Technology Development:

a. The advances demonstrated in Aztec technology are so remarkable that they are still looked upon
adoringly to this day. Just a few of the Aztec accomplishments have been the development of
mathematics, the canao, the highly specialized Aztec calendar, and remarkably helpful forms of
medicine.
b. Aztec tools were made with obsidian and chert. Near the time they were overcome by Spanish
conquistadors, advances in Aztec technology led to the experimentation of making tools with
copper. Axe blades, bows and arrows were being made with either stone or copper. Aztec
technology was so advanced that they even made drills which were made of reed or bone.
c. Aztec technology were familiar with the wheel. The wheel, however, was only used in toys.
d. Aztecs developed dugout canoes with which they transported themselves and their goods
throughout the many canals, lakes, and waterways found in the Valley of Mexico.
e. The Aztecs were very advanced scientific thinkers and mathematicians. The Aztec number
system was far more advanced than other cultures at the time.
f. Aztec astronomy was also an important component of their calendar, which reflected heavily on
their gods.
g. The Aztecs were also advanced in the development of medicine. In fact, Aztec medicine was found
in many forms, such as ointments, drinks, and salves.
h. This spectacular area of Aztec technology has been recorded in the Badianus Manuscript, which
was created by Aztec artist in 1552.

4. Inca Civilization
Location: Flourished in the Andean region of South America from the early 15 th century A.D. up
until its conquest by the Spaniards in the 1530s. One of the Inca civilization’s most famous
surviving archaeological sites is Machu Picchu, which was built the as a retreat place for an Incan
emperor. The Incas called their empire Tawantinsuyu the “Land of the Four Corners”. And its
official language was Quechua; it was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. The Inca
Empire originated at the city of Cuzco in what is today Peru. To support this empire, a system of
roads stretched to almost 25,000 miles.

Science and Technology Development:

a. They are rich in maize (corn) and dried llama, coca leaves and alcohol; Other consumable goods
include sweet potatoes, quinoa, beans and chili peppers. Coca leaves were used in moderate
amount to lessen hunger and pain during work, but were mostly used for religious and health
purposes as well as during surgeries as an anesthetic.
b. Mummification of individuals was an important part of Inca funerary rites.
c. November is described as being the “month of carrying the dead”, a time when people would try
to feed the mummies of their ancestors.
d. Striking artistry were its textiles; finest grade of cloth was called cumpi, being reserved for the
emperor and nobility. Clothes were woven out of wool from dried llamas and alpaca or vicuna
wool and cotton.

e. Objects were made out of gold and silver. Inca stone-working was also considered to be very fine.
Their craftsmen fitted building stones together perfectly without using any mortar, such that an
object as a thin as a razon blade could not be inserted between the stones.

f. Inca calendars were strongly tied to astronomy. The Inca calendar was essentially lunisolar, as two
calendars were maintained in parallel, one solar and one lunar. Twelve lunar months fall 11 days
short of a full 365 days-solar year. Equinoxes, solstices, and Venus cycles are observed.

g. The Inca used assemblages of knotted strings, known as Quipu, used as mnemonic devices or to
record numerical data and also believed to record history and literature.

h. The Inca made many discoveries in medicine. They performed successful skull surgeries, which
involved cutting holes in the skull in order to alleviate fluid buildup and inflammation caused by
head wounds.

i. Physical measures employed by the Inca were based upon human body parts. Fingers, the distance
between thumb to forefinger, palms, cubits, and wingspans, were among those units used. The
most basic unit of distance was thatkiy or thatki, or one pace.

j. The Inca weaponry included: Bronze or bone-tipped spears; Two-handed wooden swords with
serrated edges; Clubs with stone and spiked metal heads; Woolen slings and stones. Stone or
copper headed battle-axes; Bolas (stones fastened to lengths of cord).
 DO YOU KNOW?

Olmec colossal head, La Venta made from basalt is the common monument built by the Olmecs.

A vigesimal system is the number system developed by the Mayans. It contains 20 essential digits.
There were three important symbols, a shell, dot and a bar to represent numbers. A dot is worth one unit,
a bar is worth 5 units, and a shell to symbolize zero. This numbering system was used to create their
calendar, for which they are praised for to this day.
 Check your Understanding!

Name: _________________________________ Section: _______________________________

ACTIVITY 4: COMPLETE THE TABLE.

Provide the necessary information to complete the table

Olmec Mayan Aztec Inca

Civilization Civilization Civilization Civilization

Present day
Location

Agriculture

Astronomy/
Calendars

Tools and
weapon

Medicine

Other Scientific
Development
 Check your understanding!

Answer the following questions briefly

1. Identify one technology that had a remarkable impact on the life of people during Pre Columbian
time in all civilization.
2. What are the means of livelihood and survival of the people during that time?
3. Most of the civilization at that time believed in polytheism, explain the implication of this practice
to the life of people.
 LESSON 6
The State of Science and Technology
during the Middle Ages
(A.D. 400-A.D. 1300 in the Western World)

Content Standard:
The learners demonstrate an understanding of the development and state of Science and Technology
during Middle Ages

Learning Outcomes:
The students will able to:
1. Describe the development of Science and Technology during the Middle Ages;
2. Elucidate and recognize the significance of the different inventions to the society during the
Middle Ages.

Word Bank:
Medieval times, Counterweight trebuchet, crossbow, armour, heavy wheeled plough, clock, hourglass,
mirror.

DISCUSSION
Medieval Times, Middle Ages, and Dark Ages are generally referring to the same period of time
from 500 to 1500 AD. That’s 1000 years! It covers the time from the fall of the Roman Empire to the rise
of the Ottoman Empire. Europe experienced an intellectual revitalization, especially with regard to the
investigation of the natural world.
The Medieval period saw major technological advances, including the invention of vertical
windmills, spectacles, mechanical clocks, greatly improve water mills, building techniques like the Gothic
style and three-field crop rotation.
Here are some of the famous inventions during Medieval times:
1. Military technological such:
a. Counterweight trebuchet is a revolutionized medieval siege weapon which uses
counterweights and hurling of huge stones to very far distances. It was first used in the
eastern Mediterranean basin.
b. Longbow with massed, disciplined archery was used by the English against French during
the Hundred Years’ War (1337-1453). The Longbow was powerful accurate and
contributed to the eventual demise of the medieval knight class.
c. Steel crossbow was the first hand-held mechanical crossbow. This European innovation
came with several different cocking aids to enhance draw power.
d. Complete Full plate armour appeared by the end of the 14th century. The armour chain
mail was made from thousands of metal rings and the armour was along cloak called a
hauberk. Plate armour is considered the best in personal armour in terms of body protection
and showed the skills involved in working metal.

2. Agricultural Innovations such as the heavy wheeled plough three-field system, horse collar, the
stirrup, and horseshoe were developed.
a. Heavy wheeled plough was important in the cultivation of rich, heavy, often wet soils of
Northern Europe that advanced their agriculture practices.
b. Horse collar went through multiple evolutions from the 6th to 9th centuries. It allowed more
horse pulling power, such as with heavy ploughs, while horseshoes let horses adapt to rocky
terrain, mountains and carry heavier loads. They may have been known to the Romans and
Celts as early as 50 BC.
c. Artesian well is composed of a thin rod with a hard iron cutting edge placed in a borehole
and repeatedly struck with a hammer. Underground water pressure forces the water up hole
without pumping. Artesian wells are named as such for Artois, a region in France, where the
first was drilled by Carthusian monks in 1126.
d. Wheelbarrows is used in construction, mining, farming for carrying materials from place tp
place. Wheelbarrow appeared in stories and pictures between 1170 and 1250 in North-
western Europe.

3. Other Inventions
a. Blast furnace or cast iron first appeared in Middle Europe around 1150.
b. Hourglass was made from a dependable, affordable, and accurate measure of time,
believed to be a medieval innovation first documented in Siena, Italy. Mechanical clocks
is a European innovation, these weight-driven clocks were used primarily in clock towers.
c. Vertical windmills is a pivot able post mill efficient at grinding grain or draining water.
The first mention of one is from Yorkshire in England in 1185.
d. Spectacles is composed of convex lenses to help far-sighted people to see.
e. Chess- it is said that the earliest predecessors of the game originated from India, in the 6 th
century and spread through Persia and the Muslim world. The game evolved to its current
form in the 15th century.
f. Mirrors were made in 1180by Alexander Neckham who said “Take away the lead which
is behind the glass and there will be no image of the one looking in”.
g. Oil paint was invented by a Flemish painter Jan van Eyck around 1410 who introduced a
stable oil mixture. Oil was used to add details to tempera paintings.
h. A tide mill is a special type of water mill driven by tidal rise and fall. a dam with a conduit
is created across a suitable tidal inlet, or a section of river estuary is made into a reservoir.
As the tide comes in, it enters the mill pond through a one-way gate, and this gate closes
automatically when the tide begins to fall. when the tide is low enough, the stored can be
released to turn a water wheel. The earliest excavated tide mill, dating from 787 AD, is the
Nendrum Monastery mill on an island in Strangford Lough Northern Ireland.
i. The spinning wheel was probably invented in India, though its origins are ambiguous. It
reached Europe via the Middle East in the European Middle Ages. It replaced the earlier
method of hand spinning, in which the individual fibres were drawn out of a mass of wool
held on a stick, or distaff, twisted together to form a continuous strand, and wound on a
second stick, or spindle.
By 1000s, the first university were developed-they trained the middle class of the
cities in theology, medicine, and law by 1100s, modern universities emerged throughout
Western Europe such as Oxford and Cambridge in England.
In the 14th century, crisis of the Late Middle Ages was underway. A plague called
Black Death came, it wiped out so many lives it affected the entire system. It brought a
sudden end to the previous period of massive scientific change. The plaque killed 25-50%
of the people in Europe, especially in the crowded areas of the towns, where the heart of
innovations lay. Quarantine technique was established, initially a 40-day-period, the
Quarantine was introduced by the Republic of Ragusa to prevent the spreading of diseases
like the Black Death. Venice began quarantines, then the practice spread around in Europe.
 DO YOU KNOW?

Counterweight trebuchet, is revolutionized medieval siege weapons using the principle of gravity of
counterweights allowing it to hurl huge stones at very long distances. It was first used in the eastern
Mediterranean basin. Trebuchets were used in the Crusades by the 1120s, Byzantium by the 1130s and in
the Latin West by the 1150s.

Italian suit of armour with sallet, c. 1450 (Picture adapted from Wikipedia)
Plate Armour is a personal body armour made from iron or steel plates that is used to protect the body of
the wearer during war. Full plate armour was developed in Europe during the Middle ages, the coat of
plates was worn over male suits. It is commonly associated with the medieval knight.
 Check your understanding!

Name: ________________________________ Section: ________________________________

ACTIVITY 1
Procedure: Choose 1 topic and Answer the following question
1. Choose at least one inventions from the Medieval Ages that strikes you most?
Justify your answer.
2. Choose at least one inventions from the Medieval Ages whom you think have the least importance?
Justify your answer.
3. Choose at least one inventions which you think are most valuable for the survival of a human
being? Justify your answer.

Name: ___________________________________ Section: ______________________________

ACTIVITY 2: MATCHING TYPE.
Write the correct letter of your answer on the space provided before the number.
COLUMN A COLUMN B
_______1. The university that emerged A. heavy wheeled plough
During medieval times
______2. A Process of preventing B. Full plate armour
The spread of disease
______3. Characterized by the fall of C. Oxford University
Roman Empire
______4. Use for hurling huge stone D. Wheelbarrow
Over a distance
______5. Use for protecting the body E. Full plate armour

______6. Use for cultivating crops F. Black death (plague)

______7. Use for transferring heavy materials G. Mirror

______8. Use for grinding grain H. quarantine

______9. Use to see one’s image I. Vertical windmill

_____10. A disease that wiped out 25-50% of European J. Medieval Ages

 Check your understanding!

Name: ______________________________ Section: ____________________________________

Procedure: Answer the following questions briefly.

1. Make a reflective journal of some of the notable inventions made during the Medieval ages that
are still useful nowadays? Justify your answer.
 SAN JOSE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Malilipot, Albay

GE 6
(Science, Technology & Society)
MIDTERM

Prepared by:
BETTY B. DE ASIS

Name of Student: ______________

Course/ Year/ Block: ____________