Expedition Amazon

Description

Expedition Amazon

Expedition Amazon will discover the advanced and wealthy civilization deep in the heart of the jungle that Francisco de Orellano first discovered when he sailed the entire length of the Amazon. His descriptions drove much of the  further exploration of Brazil’s interior, but no advanced civilization was ever found. Was it real or  did he make it up to gain funding for a second journey? Expedition Amazon is a fun and interactive semester long quest to discover the  geography, wildlife, native cultures and interesting explorers who  have explored its interior along the way. 

This is a project-based course and students will complete a notebook about the river system, its history, culture and wildlife of the Amazon. This is a fun and exciting geography and cultural exploration class that will enhance your students understanding of the rich and diverse world in which they live.   

Expedition Amazon is the first in a series of expeditions which will introduce students to major topics in world history and geography. Our story begins with a race to secure trade routes to India, the heart of the spice trade. It follows a cast of colorful characters as they push westward, at first searching for a route around South America, then for gold and finally for the incredible resources the rainforest has to offer us today. We will also look at missionary efforts to the native tribes and learn about some of the cultures of the region and how the indigenous peoples of the Amazon basin continue to make a home there. Later destinations will include the North Pole, the top of Mt. Everest and Australia. 

Required Materials: will be provided

Optional Resources for Students who like Stickers!

Students will choose one book or audio book related to the theme to read for the semester and make two presentations. One as a travel brochure or advertisement, and one on any related topics that interested them.

Pair this class with Classical Memory Cycle III and Writing Skills as a Bundle for extra savings and for a robust year of learning and fun!