Most twenty-first century pupils don't know how to interpret cuneiform. Examining images of cuneiform and papyrus writing and using a chart and Venn diagram, young historians extrapolate what life may have been like for people who lived thousands of years ago. 

Concepts

cuneiform writing, ancient egypt, types of writing, primary sources, primary source analysis, primary source images

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Use included worksheets to analyze images of cuneiform and papyrus writing
• Create a discussion to consider how writing has changed over time

Classroom Considerations

• Learners must be able to see quality images of the writing to complete the lesson activities

Pros

• Images and prompts are engaging for younger learners
• Resource encourages critical thinking about primary sources

Cons

• None

Common Core

RH.6-8.2