Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will have a better understanding of Marco Polo's travels and their impact on history.
Materials and Prep
- Internet access for research
- Paper and pen for note-taking
No prior knowledge required, just an interest in learning about Marco Polo!
Activities
- Research Marco Polo: Use the internet to find information about Marco Polo's life, travels, and adventures. Take notes on the most interesting facts you discover.
- Map Marco Polo's Journey: Create a map showing the route of Marco Polo's travels from Venice to China. Include key cities and landmarks along the way.
- Write a Travel Journal Entry: Pretend you are Marco Polo and write a journal entry describing a day in your travels. Include details about the places you visit and the people you meet.
Talking Points
- Introduction to Marco Polo: "Marco Polo was a famous Italian explorer who traveled to China in the 13th century. His adventures were documented in a book called 'The Travels of Marco Polo'."
- Impact of Marco Polo's Travels: "Marco Polo's travels helped to introduce Europeans to the culture and riches of Asia. His stories inspired other explorers, like Christopher Columbus, to seek new trade routes."
- Challenges Faced by Marco Polo: "Marco Polo faced many challenges during his travels, including harsh weather, dangerous terrain, and unfamiliar customs. Despite these obstacles, he persevered and completed his journey."
- Legacy of Marco Polo: "Marco Polo's travels had a lasting impact on European exploration and trade. His adventures continue to inspire people to explore the unknown and learn about new cultures."