Instructions
Read the information below about the lost colony of Roanoke, then answer the questions that follow. Be sure to use complete sentences where indicated.
Background Information:
The Roanoke Colony was the first English settlement in the Americas. Established in 1585 on Roanoke Island, it was intended to be a base for further exploration and trade. However, when a supply ship returned in 1590, the colonists had disappeared without a trace. The only clue left behind was the word "CROATOAN" carved into a tree.
Questions:
1. What year was the Roanoke Colony established?
2. What was the name of the island where the colony was located?
3. What was the only clue left behind by the disappeared colonists?
4. Why do you think the colony disappeared? (Provide at least two possible reasons.)
5. If you could choose one theory about what happened to the colonists to investigate further, which would it be and why?
Creative Extension:
Imagine you were a member of the Roanoke Colony. Write a brief diary entry describing your experiences living in the colony, and your thoughts about what happened to the other colonists.
6. After considering the histories and theories about Roanoke, what do you think we can learn from this mystery?