Pre-reading questions:
- Have you ever sent a letter or a postcard to someone? Could you tell me about it?
- Do you think postal services will become less important in the future with the rise of digital communication?
Vocabulary:
- origin /AWR-i-jin/
- institution /in-sti-TOO-shuhn/
- establish /ih-STAB-lish/
- territory /TER-i-tawr-ee/
- contribute /kuhn-TRIB-yoot/
[noun] – the beginning or cause of something
The origin of the universe is a fascinating topic to explore in science class.
[noun] – a custom or tradition that has existed for a long time and is accepted as an important part of a particular society
Many people believe that education is a fundamental institution that should be accessible to all.
[verb] – to start something that will last for a long time, or to create or set something in a particular way
In order to start a successful business, it is important to establish a clear plan and set realistic goals.
[noun] – (an area of) land, or sometimes ocean , that is considered as belonging to or connected with a particular country or person
The wolf marks its territory by leaving a scent and howling, warning other wolves to stay away from its territory.
[verb] – to help by providing money or support, esp. when other people or conditions are also helping
Volunteering is a great way to contribute to your community and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Article reading:
The Achaemenid Empire, which ruled Persia from 550 BC to 330 BC, was the first to establish a formal postal system called the Chapar Khaneh. This system utilized horseback riders to carry messages across the empire, enabling the government to communicate quickly and efficiently across its vast territory. The Chapar Khaneh was a vital part of the Achaemenid government, and it became an inspiration for future postal systems. Today, Iran has one of the most extensive postal networks globally, but the Chapar Khaneh remains a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of the ancient Persians, who created a system that would be emulated and refined for centuries to come.
As we rely more and more on technology to connect with one another, it’s essential to remember the history of the postal service and how it was the first step toward the communication systems we enjoy today. The Chapar Khaneh not only helped the Achaemenid Empire, but it also contributed to the progress of communication technology worldwide. It’s incredible to think that such an ancient system has had such an impact on our world today.
Comprehension questions
- What is the Chapar Khaneh, and who used it?
- When did the Achaemenid Empire rule Persia?
- Why was the Chapar Khaneh significant for the Achaemenid government?
- What is the status of the Iranian postal system today?
- Why is it important to remember the history of the postal service?
Discussion questions
- Have you ever used traditional mail services to send letters or packages? If so, what was your experience like? If not, would you like to try it?
- Have you ever experienced the excitement of receiving a handwritten letter in the mail? If so, how did it make you feel? If not, how would you feel?
- Do you agree that the history of the postal service is fascinating, as mentioned in the article?
- What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of traditional communication methods, such as the postal service today? Please elaborate on your answer.
- What do you think can be learned from the history of the postal service, and how can it be applied in today’s world?