Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will understand how different colors of wax crayons can simulate the effects of environmental factors on archaeological artifacts. The student will apply the scientific method to observe, hypothesize, experiment, and conclude on the impact of color on the perception of artifacts.

Materials and Prep

• Various colors of wax crayons
• White paper (for drawing and experimentation)
• Notebook for observations and notes
• Pencil for initial sketches and notes
• Access to a sunny area or a heat source (like a lamp) for experiments

Before starting the lesson, ensure that the student understands the basics of the scientific method: observation, hypothesis, experimentation, and conclusion. Discuss what artifacts are and how color can influence perception in archaeology.

Activities

1. Color Exploration:

   The student will use different colors of wax crayons to create a series of drawings that represent various archaeological artifacts. They should focus on how color can change the perception of the artifact’s age, condition, and significance.

2. Heat Experiment:

   Using a heat source, the student will observe how different colors of crayons melt at different rates. They will hypothesize why certain colors might represent different environmental conditions that artifacts could be exposed to over time.

3. Artifact Reconstruction:

   The student will create a mock artifact using crayons and paper, applying their knowledge of how colors might affect an archaeologist's interpretation of the artifact. They will write a brief description of their artifact and what the colors signify.

4. Scientific Method Application:

   The student will document their observations, hypotheses, and conclusions in their notebook as they progress through the activities, reinforcing the scientific method.

Talking Points

• "Artifacts tell us stories about the past, but their colors can change how we interpret those stories."
• "What do you think happens to colors when artifacts are buried for a long time?"
• "Different colors can evoke different emotions. How might that affect how we view an artifact?"
• "The scientific method helps us make sense of what we observe. What are your observations about the colors?"
• "Why do you think archaeologists care about the color of artifacts?"
• "Can you think of an example where color changed your perception of something?"
• "Let’s discuss how heat affects different colors of wax crayons. What did you notice?"
• "How can we apply what we learned today to real-world archaeological findings?"
• "What hypothesis do you have about the longevity of colors in artifacts?"
• "Do you think certain colors are more likely to fade than others? Why?"
• "If you were an archaeologist, how would you document the colors of artifacts you found?"
• "How do you think modern technology might help in studying the colors of ancient artifacts?"
• "What role does imagination play in reconstructing the past with artifacts?"
• "Let’s summarize what we learned about the impact of color on artifacts today."
• "How could you use your findings in a future art project or presentation?"
• "What was your favorite part of today’s lesson and why?"