Question

Imagine a family of farmers in the Neolithic Age. They are a multi-generational family living together on a large farm. They have bees, chickens, and other animals and crops that keep them fed. They have several shelters that are sturdy. Last year, however, floods came and took many of their large animals and rained out their crops. Some of the family died from starvation. They are replanting this year. What cost and benefit of farming is shown in this situation? (1 point) Responses Farming leaves people vulnerable to attack, but needs less land than hunting and gathering. Farming leaves people vulnerable to attack, but needs less land than hunting and gathering. Successful harvest not guaranteed due to weather, but more people can cooperate to build better shelters. Successful harvest not guaranteed due to weather, but more people can cooperate to build better shelters. Herding animals and planting crops takes a lot of energy, but farming gave new sources of material for clothing. Herding animals and planting crops takes a lot of energy, but farming gave new sources of material for clothing. Nomads might come to steal food or animals, but food surpluses lead to specialization of workers. Nomads might come to steal food or animals, but food surpluses lead to specialization of workers.

Answer 1

The best response that captures the cost and benefit of farming in the situation described is: "Successful harvest not guaranteed due to weather, but more people can cooperate to build better shelters."

This response highlights the uncertainty associated with farming, particularly due to environmental factors like weather, which aligns with the family's experience of flooding and crop loss. It also emphasizes the benefit of cooperation within the multi-generational family, allowing them to create better solutions to their challenges, such as improving shelter.