Instructions
- Read carefully: Follow the journey through Charleston, South Carolina, by reading the information provided in each section.
- Explore and Research: Some questions may require you to use a map or look up a quick fact if you aren't sure!
- Think Practically: Use your math skills to help plan the trip budget and schedule.
- Be Creative: Use your imagination when writing your postcard at the end.
- Challenge Yourself: Try the "Explorer's Bonus" at the bottom once you finish the main tasks.
Section 1: The Geography of the "Holy City"
Charleston is often called the "Holy City" because of the many church steeples that dot its skyline. It is located on a peninsula where the Ashley and Cooper Rivers meet the Atlantic Ocean.
1. Map Skills: If you are standing at the Battery (the southern tip of the city) looking out at the water, which direction are you facing?
- A) North
- B) South
- C) West
2. Harbor Logic: Why do you think Charleston was a very important city for trading ships in the 1700s? (Hint: Think about its location next to the ocean).
Section 2: Historic Landmarks Matching
Draw a line to match the famous Charleston landmark to its correct description.
| Landmark | Description |
|---|---|
| Fort Sumter | A row of thirteen colorful historic houses near the waterfront. |
| Rainbow Row | A massive, ancient tree estimated to be 400-500 years old. |
| The Angel Oak | An island fortification where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. |
| City Market | A historic place where Gullah artisans weave sweetgrass baskets. |
Section 3: The Day Trip Itinerary
Imagine you are the tour guide! You have 8 hours to explore. Fill out the schedule below to plan your perfect day.
Note: Traveling between locations usually takes about 30 minutes.
| Time | Activity | Why did you choose this? |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Breakfast at a local bakery | To get energy for a long day of walking! |
| 10:30 AM | ||
| 12:30 PM | ||
| 2:00 PM | ||
| 4:00 PM | ||
| 5:00 PM |
Section 4: Lowcountry Math
You have a budget of $60.00 for your souvenirs and lunch. Calculate your remaining balance after these stops:
-
Lunch at a Seafood Shack: You buy a "Lowcountry Boil" basket for $18.50 and a lemonade for $3.50. Total spent on lunch: $__
-
The City Market: You find a small, hand-woven sweetgrass rose for $12.00. New total spent: $__
-
The Ice Cream Shop: You buy a scoop of "Southern Praline" ice cream for $6.00. Final total spent: $__
-
Math Challenge: How much money do you have left over from your original $60.00?
Remaining Balance: $__
Section 5: A Postcard from the Past
Pretend you are visiting Charleston in the year 1850. You are walking on the cobblestone streets and seeing horse-drawn carriages. Write a short message (3-4 sentences) to a friend describing what you see, smell, or hear.
Dear ____,
Your friend, ____
Explorer's Bonus (Challenge Question)
Charleston is famous for its Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park. In the 1700s, sailors would place a pineapple outside their homes when they returned from sea. Based on this, what do you think the pineapple represents in Charleston culture?
Hint: It starts with the letter "H".
Answer: _____
Answer Key
Section 1:
- B) South
- Possible answer: It was easy for large ships to sail directly into the harbor from the Atlantic Ocean to trade goods like rice, indigo, and cotton.
Section 2:
- Fort Sumter -> Island fortification/Civil War
- Rainbow Row -> Row of thirteen colorful houses
- The Angel Oak -> Massive, ancient tree
- City Market -> Gullah artisans/sweetgrass baskets
Section 3: Answers will vary. Check that times are logical and include 30-minute transitions if necessary.
Section 4:
- Lunch: $22.00
- New Total: $34.00
- Final Total Spent: $40.00
- Remaining Balance: $20.00
Section 5: Answers will vary. Look for sensory details like the sound of hooves on stones, the smell of the salt marsh, or the sight of tall ships.
Explorer's Bonus: Hospitality (or Welcoming)