11-13 yrs old
History
Reading and Writing
World Languages
The curiosity and interest in the students towards Egyptian history will be increased by the possibilities and opportunities offered by Minecraft.
April 2, 2018
What are the Egyptian pyramids and how were they built?
What construction techniques have been used and how limited resources and tools have affected structures?
What can you build with stone tools?
Students in the classroom will rebuild a typical environment of ancient Egypt. In particular the pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, Mycerinus and Sphinx.
Inside the pyramids will be located the tomb of the Pharaoh and the Egyptian gods will be represented. Outside near the pyramids will be constructed a timeline that traces the history of the ancient Egyptians. It will also create a mastaba.
Students will work in small groups maximum 3/4. Three groups will build a pyramid, the Sphinx, and another group will construct the timeline.
The pyramids will be reproduced to scale 1/3.
Students will use the material in their book but also photographs on the web. The teacher will provide additional material concerning the mastaba and the Egyptian gods.
Activities involve two hours per week in the classroom for a period of three months.
Students are expected to show the sources of research, show that they have a plan for construction and work in Minecraft to build their own Egyptian pyramid, a house with a barn and the temple for private use.