What Can We Learn From the Past?

What would future archeologists learn from your scholars' personal belongings? Have them bring in a box of "primary sources" from their home. Discuss the difference between observations and inference, using some of your own items to model this skill. In small groups, learners share their items and fill out a graphic organizer based on what they see from other group members. For four items they draw a sketch, make an observation, and pose an inference about that individual. The results will be fun to share and discuss. Were they somewhat accurate? How might archeologists draw mistaken conclusions when doing their work (assumptions, subjectivity, etc.)?