Lesson Overview
Students learn about the atlatl, a prehistoric throwing tool that uses leverage, then build and test replicas to measure the increase in throwing distance compared to throwing by hand. They discuss the atlatl's impact on hunting effectiveness and potentially on Stone Age human development.
Essential Question
How did the invention and use of the atlatl, a simple machine, revolutionize hunting practices and potentially influence human development in the Stone Age?
Grade(s):
Subject(s):
Recommended Technology:
Other Instructional Materials or Notes:
4, 6, 8
Materials
• Activity Handout (1 per student)
• Clipboards (1 per student)
• Measuring tapes (1 per group)
• Stopwatches (1 per group)
• Calculators
• Electronic Scale (1 per group)
• Orange safety cones
• Pin Flags
• Replica atlatls & darts (1 atlatl and at least one dart per group of students. It is recommended to have several darts per group)
o Atlatl & Dart Materials (From “Making an Atlatl” by the Montana Historical Society, instructions available in the resources tab)
5/8” diameter, 48” long wooden dowel
Duct Tape (preferably in a color that is not gray)
Scissors
1” diameter, 48” long piece of scrap wood
Hammer
1” Nail
80 grit sandpaper
o Another good but slightly more complicated atlatl guide is “How to Make an Atlatl and a Dart” by the Florida Public Archaeology Network, available in the resources tab.
- Markers or other supplies to decorate the atlatls and darts.
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Log In to View LessonStandards
- 4.1.CO Compare the interactions among cultural groups as a result of European colonization.
- 4.1.CX Contextualize the experience of Africans, Europeans, and Native Americans in South Carolina.
- 6.1.CC Analyze changes and continuities that influenced the organization and technological advancements of early and classical world civilizations.
- 8.1.CC Analyze the changes and continuities of the Native Americans' experiences prior to and as a result of settlement and colonization.
- This indicator was developed to encourage inquiry into Native American civilizations and cultures prior to European contact and their interactions with Europeans during the period of settlement and colonization, including their efforts to preserve their cultures.
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Log In to View LessonLesson Created By: MegGaillard
Lesson Partners: South Carolina Department of Natural Resources