Middle Ages Unit Study - Week 1 Maps

Week 1: We colored and labeled medieval maps.

The middle ages were a time of turmoil for the people of Europe. The Roman Empire had fallen and instead of spending time on learning and leisure time, the people were thrown back into a life where covering basic needs were the priority. Soldiers no longer kept the land safe, powerful people fought for control and knights, kings, peasants, and castles was the result.

To kick off this unit study we read the picture book The Middle Ages (Journey Through History). It provided a brief overview of the people and how they lived.

In addition, we watched the video Once Upon a Time Man, The Cathedral Builders. This children's animated video from the 1970's is entertaining and provides a good overview of the time period.

My oldest is very well read on the topic of the middle ages. At the bottom I have listed some of the books we have read together which I would recommend. Contrasted with her are my younger children who are learning about the middle ages from the beginning. Although there are always wide ability gaps when studying topics together, this time there are distinct knowledge gaps which will make it a challenging subject.

Our first project was very simple to prepare, but a challenge for the children. 

Each child began with a map of Europe which they crumpled over and over to give an aged appearance.

Next they colored the water and labeled mountain ranges, rivers, regions and cities referencing an atlas.

As we continue this unit study there will be many more involved crafts and activities. Please join us and feel free to sign-up to follow Highhill Education by email if you haven't done so already.

Initial Book List
Story of the World, Middle Ages by Susan Wise Bauer
Story of the Middle Ages by Samuel B Harding
The Minstrel and the Dragon Pup by Rosemary Sutcliff
The Kitchen Knight by Margaret Hodges
Castle Diary by Richard Platt
Ms. Frizzle's Adventures, Medieval Castle by Joanna Cole

Of Swords and Sorcerers by Evernden
King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table by Howard Pyle

The Great an Terrible Quest by Margaret Lovett
Otto of the Silver Hand by Howard Pyle
The Door in the Wall by Marguerite de Angeli
Adam of the Road by Robert Lawson 
The Little Duke by Charlotte Mary Yonge

This post is linked to:
No Time For Flash Cards

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