Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Activities
Introduction to Early Human Tools - Set up a simulated archaeological dig site in the classroom and examine replicas of flint artifacts, discussing their uses in fire creation and food preparation (25 min)
Discussion on Survival Strategies - Facilitate a discussion around the essential question 'Are you smarter than a caveman?' and consider how early humans might have solved problems using these tools (20 min)
Reflection and Hypothesis - Reflect on the day's learnings and hypothesize the role of different tools in early human survival (26 min)
Geographical Distribution of Flint - Investigate the geographical distribution of flint resources and understand how early humans adapted to their environments by utilizing local materials (20 min)
Hands-on Flint Knapping Introduction - Begin hands-on sessions by practicing basic flint knapping techniques with safety instructions, focusing on creating simple shapes (30 min)
Reflection on Tool Making - Reflect on the challenges and skills required in flint knapping and how it relates to early human resourcefulness (21 min)
Advanced Flint Knapping Techniques - Continue hands-on flint knapping, advancing to more complex shapes such as arrowheads and scrapers, emphasizing precision (30 min)
Fire Making Techniques - Explore and practice basic fire-making techniques used by early humans, understanding the importance of fire in survival (25 min)
Reflection and Connection to Modern Concepts - Reflect on the connection between historical practices and modern concepts of adaptation and innovation (16 min)
Deliverables
1. Digital Portfolio Entry: Students document their process and findings from flint knapping and fire-making activities, including photographs and reflections.
2. Flint Tool Creations: Students create at least one flint tool (e.g., arrowhead or scraper) and provide a written explanation of its purpose and significance.
Preparation 1. Gather replicas of flint artifacts and tools for examination by students.
2. Acquire materials for flint knapping, including authentic flint pieces and safety equipment (gloves, goggles).
3. Prepare resources for fire-making demonstrations, including replica fire-starting tools and safety measures.
4. Set up the classroom to simulate an archaeological dig site with relevant props and materials.
5. Organize digital platforms for students to document their process and reflections.
Week 2
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Activities
Advanced Fire-Making Techniques - Practice refining fire-making skills, exploring various methods used by early humans, and discussing the significance of fire in different climates and environments (30 min)
Introduction to Basic Meat Butchering - Learn basic meat butchering techniques as practiced by early humans, focusing on safety and efficiency, and discuss its role in survival (25 min)
Reflection on Fire and Butchering Skills - Reflect on the skills learned, considering their importance in early human life and their connections to modern survival techniques (16 min)
Geographical Resource Adaptation Analysis - Analyze how early humans adapted to their environments using local resources, incorporating research on flint and other natural materials (20 min)
Collaborative Tool-Making Session - Work in groups to create a more complex tool or set of tools using flint knapping techniques, applying knowledge of resource adaptation (30 min)
Reflection on Collaboration and Innovation - Reflect on the collaborative process and innovation in tool-making, drawing connections to modern engineering and problem-solving (21 min)
Exhibition Preparation - Prepare for the interactive exhibition, focusing on setting up stations and practicing presentations for the kindergarten audience (25 min)
Interactive Demonstration Rehearsal - Rehearse guiding kindergarten students through safe and simple activities, ensuring clarity and engagement (30 min)
Final Reflection and Exhibition Readiness - Reflect on the learning journey and ensure readiness for the exhibition, discussing how to convey key concepts effectively (16 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed digital portfolio documenting flint knapping techniques, fire-making process, and meat butchering insights.
2. Interactive demonstration plan for kindergarten exhibition, detailing activities and storytelling elements.
Preparation 1. Procure flint and replica tools for advanced knapping activities.
2. Gather materials for fire-making exercises, such as bow drills and flint and steel.
3. Acquire safe, simulated materials for meat butchering practice, like playdough or clay.
4. Organize resources for kindergarten exhibition, including stations setup and storytelling props.