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Puzzles From the Past: Problem Solving Through Archeology Traveling Trunk

This trunk is currently not available while new NAGPRA (Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act) rules are reviewed.

Sixth through eighth grade lesson plans included.

Available for use with any age.

Stratigraphy ActivityThis traveling resource trunk combines an exploration of Native American cultures with an introduction to basic archeological concepts.  Teaching materials contained in this trunk include lesson plans, reproductions of American Indian tools, objects found in historic archeology sites, and photographs. 

The six lessons in this trunk explore the lifestyles of some Plains Indian people using the critical thinking skills archeologists utilize. Students learn that archeologists study human culture as they examine objects traditionally used by the Wichita Indians.  Observation and inference skills are used as students work with archeological features of a Wichita grass house, reproduction artifacts, and photographs.  A lesson on dating objects requires students to examine reproduction artifacts, research materials included in the trunk, record information from their research, and create a timeline they will then use to determine the age of the archeological site the pieces represent.  Other lessons include reading ethnographical materials, role playing, and classification of objects.  Lessons are written at a sixth through eighth grade level.

What people are saying about this trunk:

We've been using the Archeology trunk this week and my kids LOVE it. . . . It has been so much fun and I've only done the first two lessons. I'm so glad I knew about this resource and can pass this information and knowledge on to other people. -  Allison Bertels, Arkansas City

Researching an object.

Contents of Trunk

The Kansas Historical Society developed the Puzzles From the Past: Problem Solving Through Archeology traveling resource trunk with major funding provided by the Midwest Archeological Center, National Park Service in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Trunk Specifications

Weight: 38 lbs.
Dimensions: 31" x 22" x 9"
Insure for $500 when shipping

Reserve this trunk by filling out a Traveling Trunk request form, emailing kshs.education@ks.gov , or calling 785-272-8681, ext. 416.

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