What is Ancient Civilizations?

2008-03-13T16:08:00.000-07:00

Ancient Civilizations is a library program geared toward encouraging youngsters to read and learn about history in a fun, interactive way. In each program, young people aged 9-13 participate in an "excavation" where they unearth new artifacts and record their findings in an effort to analyze their findings and fill in the gaps left in historical records.

Each Junior Archaeologist receives a hard hat and an access card along with an Official Record Book in which to make notes on their discoveries. Each participant is separated into one of three groups. Each group follows a kind of scavanger hunt. They must arrive at a certain station and then follow instructions that will bring them to the next station. At each station is an article. It could be about that civilization's warfare, religion, clothing, or even food. They must read the article and answer two questions. These questions can be easy in some cases, but most require critical thinking and attention to detail. Kids are not graded on their answers, but each participant always seems driven to finish the questions and to answer them correctly. Of course, I am always available to help them.

In each program, there are three Bonus Activities. These stations are extra little bits of fun which serve as little treats amid all the reading and learning. In most cases, they reconstruct artifacts of their own or try their hand at ancient craftsmanship. In other cases, they enjoy food tastings. For a couple programs, they even got tattoos! Temporarily, of course.

At the end of each program, they receive a bag in which to put their crafts and record books, but they also receive a newsletter filled with all sorts of ancient information. These booklets contain all the answers to their questions, all the articles from the program, and full-color photos and concept art to show what life was like in ancient times.

Program Information

What is Ancient Civilizations?