Artifacts
This activity will require students to investigate details from their chosen subject (Pony Express rider, Indian tribe, anyone past or present) and gather artifacts (items that person would have used, worn, had in their surroundings etc.) to weave into a story about that person.

Needed Materials:

Objects collected by individuals or class
Blank story map for each student

Activity:
1. After reading a story about a chosen subject, discuss the items that were involved in the life of that person.
2. Draw, find pictures, or collect items resembling the ones chosen. You might want to check out these Internet addresses for pictures: (Remember to go "back" to return here) Virtual School, Smithsonian
3. Have the students retell the story, including details about the items.
4. Have each student create a picture of one scene in the story using only a few items. Then sequence the scenes and have each student tell their part.
5. Select a set of items not based on the story and have the students make up their own stories, using the items as important objects (heirlooms, key-items in the story, etc.)

Evaluation:
1. Self-evaluate what they liked best about their own stories or pictures and what they would change or improve on in future projects. (Portfolio-type)
2. Assess using a rubric, individual or mastery objectives.

Additional Activities:
Return to my Homepage