Activities to Teach Students About the Age of Exploration: Origins
The Age of Exploration was a significant period in history that saw European explorers set out to discover new lands, resources, and trade routes. This period of discovery lasted from the 15th to the 17th century, and it ultimately led to the globalization of the world we know today.
Teaching students about the Age of Exploration is an essential part of history education, as it can help students understand the motivations behind exploration and the consequences that followed. Here are some activities that teachers can use to educate students about the origin of the Age of Exploration.
1. Timeline of Exploration:
Create a timeline that shows the key explorers and their expeditions during the Age of Exploration. This timeline activity can help students understand the chronology of events and the different explorers’ contributions to exploration.
2. Explorers’ Motivations:
Ask students to research the motivations behind the Age of Exploration and create a poster or presentation displaying their findings. This activity can help students understand the political, social, and economic factors that led to exploration.
3. Map Exploration:
Provide students with a world map and a list of European explorers. Ask students to locate the areas that each explorer explored and create a map displaying their findings. This activity reinforces geography skills and knowledge of exploration.
4. Trade Game:
Create a game that simulates the trading that took place during the Age of Exploration. This game can help students understand the importance of trade and the impact that it had on exploration.
5. Cultural Exchange Activity:
Ask students to research the cultural exchange that took place during the Age of Exploration. Have them choose a particular culture and explore the impact of European contact on that culture. This activity can help students understand the consequences of exploration on different cultures.
In conclusion, teaching students about the Age of Exploration is essential for understanding the origins of globalization and how it shaped the world we know today. By using these activities, teachers can provide students with a comprehensive understanding of exploration and its impact on the world.