Continued Waves of Exploration








The Process

You will use the internet, text books and primary source handouts to investigate the voyages of , Columbus,Leif Ericsson and Ferdinand Magellan. As you investigate be sure to look for the ansewrs to the following questions. Your journal should weave the answers to these questions with your own creative interpretation of the feeling and emotions of these explorers. This lesson should take three days, each day you will choose a different explorer.

  1. Prepare a map or chart of the route taken.
  2. Describe the ships used by your explorer. This description should include the following information: ship size, traveling speed, and division of labor.
  3. Prepare a timeline of the expedition. How long did the expedition last and what memorable events took place. This should be an annotated timeline which means your dates should include pictures of the events unfolding. You will need to finish this for homework if class time is not sufficient.
  4. What were the goals of the expedition? Why did your explorer set sail?
  5. Were these goals achieved?

The Diary The diary should be a log of 7 days. You are to write your diary as if you are one of the explorers. It should read similar to the following example: Today the men are rather discouraged. Last night one of our men died from scurrvy...

You can type your diary on the scroll stationery which was created in Claris Works. I suggest you use one of the old style fonst such as Old English text. You can get the stationery by clicking on the drawing to the right.

Evaluation

Individual grades will be given for the logs each student prepares. Students will begraded with a rubric which assesses the three following areas

  • correct and factual information where required.
  • reflective and insightful supplements such as my scurrvy example
  • successful completion of the guiding questions

    Conclusion

    When you complete this three day adventure you should be familiar with many of the trials and adventures of early explorers. When have you ever taken risks to embark upon an adventure of your own?

    Last updated May 18, 1997. Return to the Wave Unit Page

    Based on a template written by Bernie Dodge.