The discovery of the Lascaux Cave Paintings in France gave social scientists an important view into the lives of prehistoric people. This was front page news in 1940 during a time when much of Europe was consumed by World War II. The story of the discovery itself by four teenagers is fascinating for students as are their contributions to our understanding of early humans. In this activity, students will create a newspaper that retells this discovery or any other related to early humans. They can use the 5 Ws as a guide. Teachers can have students answer questions like: Who made the discovery? Where and When did it occur? What did they find? Why is it important?
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Due Date:
Objective: Retell the story of the discovery of the Lascaux Cave Paintings or another major archeological discovery.
Student Instructions:
Requirements: 1-2 sentences explaining the 5Ws: Who made the discovery? Where and When did it occur? What did they find? Why is it important?
Guide students to use trustworthy sources by showing them how to find reliable books, websites, and databases about early humans. Explain why using accurate information is important for their newspaper stories.
Model note-taking strategies such as using bullet points or graphic organizers. Encourage students to jot down the 5Ws as they gather facts, making it easier to organize their newspaper articles.
Demonstrate how to structure a newspaper article with a headline, lead, and supporting details. Help students use the 5Ws to guide each section, so readers can follow the story easily.
Set up a peer review process where students exchange drafts and give each other feedback. Encourage positive comments and suggestions to improve clarity and detail in their newspaper pieces.
Encourage students to add drawings, maps, or images that relate to their chosen discovery. Explain how visuals help readers connect with the story and make the newspaper come alive.
The Early Humans Newspaper Activity is a classroom project where students research and retell the story of a major archeological discovery, such as the Lascaux Cave Paintings, using the 5Ws (Who, What, When, Where, Why) and present their findings in a newspaper format.
Students answer Who made the discovery, What was found, When and Where it happened, and Why it is important, helping them structure their newspaper article clearly and informatively.
Students can choose from discoveries like Machu Picchu by Hiram Bingham, King Tut's tomb by Howard Carter, Homo habilis by Mary Leakey, and Lucy by Donald Johnson, in addition to the Lascaux Cave Paintings.
The article should cover the 5Ws of the discovery, include scenes, characters, and items to illustrate the story, and provide clear, concise information about who discovered the caves, when, where, what was found, and why it matters.
The Lascaux Cave Paintings offer valuable insights into the lives, beliefs, and artistic abilities of prehistoric people, helping social scientists and students learn about early human culture and expression.