Dr. Schindler introduced us to the world of experimantal archaeology by delving into such topics as stone tools, net construction and fire production. So how do we utilize this new-found knowledge into our classrooms? A popular idea pertaining to stations at a prehistory living day was discussed to include activities such as sand grinding, stone tool flaking and net making. Safety issues were of a concern, especially with the younger students. Teacher demonstrations would have to replace some of the more dangerous activities.
Other discussions led to the following ideas:
1. Geology- the use of rock classification (sedimentary, igneous, metamorphic) and how each flakes differently.
2. Economics- scarcity of materials, trade, interdependence, and opportunity cost to situations in prehistory.
3. Assemble a kit of natural resources (i.e. bone, antler, egg, pelts, shell, shark teeth, porcupine quills, bark, stone) and have the students classify them according to their specific use (shelter, food, tools, clothing, decoration).
4. The Iceman or "Otzi" from the stone ages, discovered in 1991 in the European Alps. Discuss the items found with him.
5. Use nonfiction sources:
a. Frozen Man by David Getz (Scholastic, 1994).
b. The Stone Age News by Fiona MacDonald (Candlewick Press, 2003?).
c. Early Humans- An Interdisciplinary Unit by Janet Cain (Teacher Created Materials, Inc., 1995)- contains a great "Hunters & Gatherers" game and a comparison of prehistoric tools to today's tools.
6. Or fiction sources:
a. Dar and the Spear Thrower by Marjorie Cowley (Clarion Books, 1994).
b. Maroo of the Winter Caves by Ann Turnbull.
Discuss plot structure, predictions, inferences, character traits and cause & effect. Have the students make up a diary or daily log based on daily life within the stories, both fiction and nonfiction.
