Silken Dreams

Worksheet Description

The worksheet contains a historical fiction story set in the bustling market city of X’ian. It follows the journey of a merchant named Cheng, who, inspired by the spirit of adventure and the desire for prosperity, embarks on a perilous journey along the Silk Road. Cheng encounters various challenges, such as crossing treacherous deserts and dealing with diverse cultures, while trading spices and learning new languages. His adventure is not only a trade mission but also a voyage of discovery, where he learns about the grandeur of Byzantium and the wisdom of the nomadic tribes he meets along the way.

The story is crafted to teach students about the historical significance of the Silk Road as a major conduit for trade and cultural exchange between the East and the West. It provides a glimpse into the life of a trader during this period, emphasizing the dangers and opportunities present in long-distance trade routes of the past. Students are encouraged to understand the diverse interactions between different civilizations and the way these exchanges shaped historical progress. Moreover, the narrative serves to instill a sense of adventure and the quest for knowledge, reflecting the human drive to explore and understand the wider world.