Introduction
How do we know what we know about history? It all comes down to the processes that archaeologists use ...
Welcome to your Archaeology WebQuest!
Did you ever wonder what an archaeologist really does? Or what it would really be like to be an archaeologist? Over the next several days, you are about to find out!
You will be using the websites Mrs. Rosevear introduces to "dig" through the past and come to an understanding about how archaeologists use artifacts to piece together history -- or construct a narrative about the past.
Follow the prompts within the WebQuest, and enjoy your adventure!
Task
You will work in groups of 3 to compete 3 jobs. Look at your group members, and look at the individual strengths you have to decide who does what.
Your group's purpose will be to create an Archaeology infographic using http://www.easel.ly for students in the fifth grade. Your infographic will answer:
1. What is archaeology?
2. How do archaeologists use evidence to construct a theory about history?
3. Why is archaeology important?
4. Why do we study the past?
Team Roles:
1. Scribe: In ancient times, not everyone knew how to write. Life was tough. Most people spent their days worrying about providing food and keeping their families safe. As a result, communities would train a select few to write and keep records. They were known as "scribes." The scribe in your group needs to be an excellent notetaker. He/she will be responsible for writing and maintaining (not losing) all notes for this task! In addition, the scribe will be responsible for creating the Archaeology infographic for your target audience of G5 students.
2. Research Director: This person is computer savvy and knows what research questions to ask in the databases. He/she will also be responsible for maintaining an Easy Bib with MLA citations and guide the group in using appropriate images and sources.
3. Task Manager: This person is responsible for understanding the standards and learning goals of the task, what needs to be done, when, and how. A good Task Manager will possess strong leadership skills to keep the group moving and accomplishing what is expected. The Task Manager will also use the rubric to guide the project.
Process
Part 1. Familiarize Yourself With Archaeology.
Visit the following websites, and explore! Share any that you like in particular.
Dig Deeper (game)
Hunt the Ancestors (game)
Ask Dr. Dig (resource on Archaeology)
Diver’s Quest (game)
Gladiator: Dressed to Kill (game)
Pyramid Builder (game)
Viking Quest (game)
Otzi: The Iceman (must visit***)
Part 2. Databases
Evaluation
The Big Idea: Archaeology is a means of understanding the common heritage that human beings share, and how humans came to be the way they are today.
Task: You will investigate the process that archaeologists use to draw conclusions about the history of human beings.
Questions to answer:
1. What is archaeology?
2. How do archaeologists use evidence to construct a theory about history?
3. Why is archaeology important?
4. Why do we study the past?