Anthropology Lesson Plans

Fifth graders explore the classical American cultures of the Aztecs, Mayas, and Incas. In this anthropology and classical cultures activity, 5th graders examine the various types of settlements of land use in Colonial America. Students develop historical perspective and cultural perspective by recognizing and understanding art is a record of the human experience with the past, present, and future.

Twelfth graders identify women who have excelled in anthropology. They present their findings which are compiled with other students' research to produce a list of women anthropologists.

Twelfth graders explore women (or men if they are underrepresented) who are leaders and achievers in the particular core content curriculum area.  In this Anthropology lesson, 12th graders study the women who have distinguished themselves and made significant contributions within the field of anthropology.

Students examine the combined subjects of anthropology and sociology and explain how the disciplines would study the same issue. On poster board, they locate or draw pictures related to the two subjects. Once this is completed, students write summaries comparing and contrasting anthropology and sociology.

Young scholars examine the discovery of the Flores man. In this anthropology lesson, students discover details about the Flores man and the work of anthropologists. Young scholars are challenged to create their own stories that explain Flores man.

Students investigate the mystery of Stonehenge. In this Stonehenge lesson, students participate in a classroom activity that requires them to research information about Stonehenge as well as information regarding archeology and anthropology. Students apply scientific investigation skills to other ancient discoveries.

Students explore cultural art pieces. In this anthropology  lesson, students select an artifact to research from the National Museum website. Students conduct research of the artifact and draw a replica.

Students analyze the difference between archaeology and anthropology while studying the evolution of different products. In this archaeology and anthropology lesson plan, students trace the progression of a certain tool or product and come up with ways to improve the product. Students use the design process to develop a new product or tool.

Students are introduced to the topics of archaeology and anthropology. In groups, they examine the methods they use to gather information about the history of certain groups. They analyze artifacts to draw conclusions about the various culture groups.

Students research the validity and legality of ownership. Through the use of primary sources, web based and print media research, students become familiar with and evaluate the varying viewpoints regarding the archaeological/anthropological discoveries of scientists as well as the agencies and policies involved when conflicts erupt.