Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will learn about the Vikings and their way of life, including their culture, explorations, and impact on history.
Materials and Prep
- Pen and paper for note-taking
- Access to the internet for research
- Curiosity and enthusiasm to learn about the Vikings!
Activities
- Viking Exploration Map: Create a map showing the Viking explorations and trade routes. Include key locations such as Scandinavia, Iceland, Greenland, and Vinland.
- Viking Ship Building: Design and build a model of a Viking longship using materials like cardboard, popsicle sticks, and paper.
- Viking Runes: Learn about the runic alphabet used by the Vikings and create your own name or message using Viking runes.
- Viking Feast: Prepare a simple Viking-inspired meal with foods like bread, cheese, fruits, and honey to experience a taste of Viking cuisine.
Talking Points
- Who were the Vikings?
"The Vikings were skilled seafarers and warriors who lived in Scandinavia during the Middle Ages." - What did the Vikings explore?
"The Vikings explored and settled in areas such as England, Scotland, Ireland, Iceland, Greenland, and even reached North America." - How did the Vikings communicate?
"The Vikings used the runic alphabet to write messages and inscriptions on stones, wood, and metal." - What were Viking longships?
"Viking longships were fast and agile boats that allowed the Vikings to travel long distances and navigate rivers and oceans." - What was Viking society like?
"Viking society was organized into clans led by chieftains, and they valued bravery, honor, and storytelling." - What legacy did the Vikings leave behind?
"The Vikings left a lasting impact on language, culture, and trade in the regions they explored and settled."