This lesson explores the development and significance of early tools, shelters, cooking methods, and symbolic communication.

Lesson Objective

Students will understand the significance of prehistoric technologies in human evolution and daily life, including tools, shelters, cooking methods, and early forms of communication.

Introduction to Prehistoric Technology

Begin with an overview of the prehistoric era, emphasizing the lack of written records and the reliance on archaeological findings for understanding early human life.

Key Topics

1. **Early Tools**: Discuss the invention of the clubs, spear-thrower (atlatl), the bow, the javelin, and the sling, highlighting their use in survival. Mention the development of the mace as one of the first designed offensive weapons[1].

2. **Shelter Construction**: Explore various ancient shelters, such as the Tipi, Lavvu, Wigwam, Hogan, and Burdei, explaining their construction, materials, and the principle of thermal mass for maintaining temperature[2].

3. **Cooking Methods**: Introduce the discovery of cooking with fire nearly two million years ago and its impact on human nutrition and social organization. Discuss the evolution of cooking technologies from open fires to the use of embers and the significance of maintaining a fire[3].

4. **Symbolic Communication**: Cover the use of geometric signs and symbols by early humans, such as dots, asterisks, spirals, and negative hands. Discuss the potential meanings of these symbols and their role in the development of complex communication[4].

Inquiry-Based Activities

### Tool Crafting

**Objective**: Students will understand the materials and techniques used in prehistoric toolmaking.

**Activity**: In groups, students will attempt to create simple tools using materials similar to those available in prehistoric times (e.g., stones, sticks). They will research the methods used by early humans and present their findings and creations to the class.

### Shelter Model Construction

**Objective**: Students will explore the design and function of ancient shelters.

**Activity**: Students will choose an ancient shelter type and construct a small model using natural materials. They will present on how the shelter's design addresses environmental challenges.

### Cooking Experiment

**Objective**: Students will learn about the evolution of cooking methods.

**Activity**: Organize a demonstration of cooking with an open fire, if feasible, or use videos to show how early humans might have cooked. Discuss the nutritional and social implications of cooking.

### Deciphering Symbols

**Objective**: Students will investigate the use of symbols in prehistoric communication.

**Activity**: Students will create their own symbols to represent various objects or concepts and then attempt to communicate messages using these symbols. This activity can lead to a discussion on the development of written language.