First Footsteps

A 4-lesson unit exploring the first human migrations to the Americas. Students investigate the Bering Land Bridge and Coastal Route theories using maps and archaeological evidence, tracing the journey from Asia down to South America between 25,000 and 14,000 years ago.

JJJulie Johns

History Detectives

An introductory lesson for 3rd graders to understand what history is, why it matters, and the different types of social scientists who study the past.

The Frozen Bridge

Explore how the Ice Age created a land bridge (Beringia) that allowed the first humans to migrate to the Americas. Objectives: Explain how lower sea levels created a land bridge; Identify Beringia on a map.

Artifact Hunters

Investigate archaeological evidence to understand why early humans followed herds across Beringia. Objectives: Explain why early humans followed mammoths; Identify artifacts (spear points) as evidence of migration.

Coastal Voyagers

Examine the Coastal Route theory and the archaeological evidence that suggests an alternative or additional migration route. Objectives: Describe the Coastal Route theory; Explain why boats and sea resources (kelp highway) were important.

The Long Journey South

Trace the migration journey southward to South America and understand the timeline of early human arrival. Objectives: Map the migration route from North to South America; Identify the timeline (25,000-14,000 years ago).