SAVY Saturday, Week 2, Beyond the Pyramids (K)
It was an absolute privilege to step in for the instructor today while she was out. The students’ enthusiasm for learning made for an engaging and enriching experience!
We began by getting to know each other and reviewing what they had learned last week. It was wonderful to hear their insightful comments about the significance of the Nile River and how it played a crucial role in the development of Egyptian civilization. Their ability to recall and discuss key points showed a strong foundation of knowledge.
Next, we explored the role of the pharaohs, focusing on Menes, the ruler who united Upper and Lower Egypt. The students were particularly excited to make a connection to Memphis, the first capital of a unified Egypt, which he established. From there, we learned about Hatshepsut, one of the few female pharaohs in Egyptian history, and discussed her remarkable reign.
To bring history to life, the students constructed their own versions of a Pharaoh’s headdress. Many of their designs cleverly incorporated Menes’ crown, symbolizing the unity of Upper and Lower Egypt with the traditional red and white colors. Their creativity and attention to historical details were impressive!
We then shifted our focus to the pyramids, exploring their purpose, construction, and significance in Ancient Egypt. A highlight of the lesson was taking a virtual tour of the Great Pyramid of Giza, which allowed students to visualize the grandeur and complexity of these ancient structures. They then put their creativity to the test by sculpting pyramids out of playdough, with some even taking on the challenge of replicating the Sphinx!
Our journey through Egyptian history concluded with an engaging discussion on Tutankhamun, his life, his magnificent golden sarcophagus, and the fascinating process of mummification. The students were captivated by the mysteries surrounding King Tut and eagerly shared their thoughts on ancient burial practices.
Overall, it was a fantastic day filled with curiosity, hands-on learning, and meaningful connections to history. I can’t wait to see where their studies take them next!
Questions to ask your Archeologist about today:
- What do you remember about the importance of the River Nile to the Egyptian civilization?
- What is something you remember about the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt?
- Who was Menes and what did his white and red headdress represent?
- What made the Pharoah Hatshepsut different?
- What shape was the base of your pyramid?
- What do you remember about the Egyptian mummies?
Thank you for sharing these bright minds with me today,
Jacqueline Kent, EdD