Sri Lanka Grade 6 Curriculum - History

This course explores the history of Sri Lanka, starting with the origins of humankind and early civilizations, and progressing to the Anuradhapura Kingdom. It aims to develop critical thinking skills through the study of historical sources. The curriculum is implemented from 2015.

I. Introduction to History

• What is History? History is the study of humankind from the past up to the present day. It explores how humans have interacted with each other and their environment.
• How is History Constructed? History is built from sources, which can be literary (books, legends, songs) or archaeological (inscriptions, tools, buildings). These sources provide evidence of past events.
• Measuring Time: Different methods are used to measure time, including the Christian Era (AD/BC), Buddhist Era, Shaka Era, and Hijri Era.

II. The Early Human

• Origins of Life: Life on Earth began long after the Earth's formation. Plants appeared first, followed by aquatic and land animals, and finally, humans.

• Adaptation to Environment: Human physical features adapted to different environmental conditions, leading to variations in appearance. Despite these differences, all humans share a common ancestor.
• Cultural Evolution: Early humans faced challenges like finding food and shelter. They developed tools, adapted to their environment, and eventually formed settlements. The Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic ages mark different stages of tool development and cultural progress.

III. Ancient Civilizations of the World

• What is Civilization? Civilization emerges as societies transition from rural villages to urban centers. This process takes time and involves developing characteristics like writing systems, organized religion, trade, and administrative structures.
• Ancient Civilizations: Several ancient civilizations developed independently around the world. Examples include the Sumerian, Egyptian, and Indus Valley civilizations. Each made unique contributions to human development, such as writing systems, monumental architecture, and urban planning.
• Gifts to the World: Ancient civilizations left a lasting legacy, including advancements in writing, law, mathematics, architecture, and irrigation. These advancements influenced later societies and continue to be relevant today.

IV. Early Settlements of Sri Lanka

• First Settlements: Early humans migrated to Sri Lanka and settled in various environmental zones, including the wet, dry, and arid zones. Archaeological evidence of these settlements has been found in locations like Batadombalena, Kitulgala lena, and Pahiyangala.
• Early Lifestyle: Early inhabitants used caves for shelter, hunted for food, and developed basic tools. They gradually transitioned to more permanent settlements, developing agriculture and small villages.
• Emergence of Cities: With advancements in agriculture and trade, cities began to emerge in Sri Lanka. These urban centers played a key role in the island's development.

V. Our Great Kings

This section explores the contributions of several key kings of the Anuradhapura Kingdom.

• King Pandukabhaya: Overcame challenges in his early life to become king and establish Anuradhapura as the capital. He developed the city, established administrative systems, and promoted religious tolerance.
• King Devanampiya Tissa: Played a crucial role in introducing Buddhism to Sri Lanka. He embraced Buddhism and supported the establishment of the Buddhist Sangha, marking a significant turning point in the island's history.
• King Dutugemunu: Known for his military prowess and unification of the country. He liberated Sri Lanka from foreign rule and is also remembered for his religious service, including the construction of temples and stupas.
• King Valagamba: Ascended the throne amidst challenges and is recognized for his religious contributions, including the construction of the Abhayagiri Monastery and the writing down of the Tripitaka (Buddhist scriptures).
• King Vasabha: The first king of the Lambakarna dynasty. He consolidated power, expanded the irrigation system, and promoted economic development.
• King Mahasen: Known for his extensive irrigation projects, including the construction of large reservoirs and canals. He also built temples and is associated with the construction of the Jetavanarama stupa.
• King Dhatusena: Expelled foreign invaders and unified the country. He contributed to economic development through irrigation projects and also supported religious activities, including the construction of the Avukana Buddha statue.