Write the word Mummies on the board or overhead projector, ask students to brainstorm what they know about mummies. You may ask these questions: What is a mummy? Where have mummies been found?
Explain to students that a mummy is a preserved body which has undergone the process of embalming. It involves drying a body with sunlight, fire, smoke, or chemicals, which removes the moisture that bacteria and fungi need to grow.
Then divide class into homogeneous groups of 4 to 5 students. Have each student responsible for a task within the group. (Researcher, Reporter, Scientist, and Multimedia)
Have groups research the process of mummification using the National Geographic website "How to make a Mummy" or other sites listed below.
Using a word processor, groups will create a table detailing the step-by-step mummification process.
Groups will then create their own apple mummy by using the directions from "Salt of the Earth" from the Newton's Apple Series.
Each group will maintain a journal of the mummification process.
Have each group document the different stages of mummification by using a digital camera.
Then have each group combine their journal entries and images to create PowerPoint presentation.
When all groups have finished their research projects, each group will present their project to the entire class.
If CD-Burner is available, create a CD of all group presentations to share with other staff or administrators.

Assessment:

Students will be evaluated on their individual task and PowerPoint presentation rubric. Sample (presentation rubric)

Extension Activities:

Each student will create their own sarcophagus or canopic jars.

Read "Mummies Made in Egypt"

Web Links:

Face to Face with Mummies

Clickable Mummy

Mummies of Ancient Egypt

A-Z Egyptian Mummies

Cyber Mummy

Ask the Mummy

Embalming the body
The body is taken to the tent known as 'ibu' or the 'place of purification'

Drying the body
The body is now covered and stuffed with natron which will dry it out.

Canopic Jars
The internal organs were removed from a body they were placed in hollow canopic jars.

Wrapping the mummy

A A priest reads spells out loud while the mummy is being wrapped. These spells will help ward off evil spirits and help the deceased make the journey to the afterlife.

The arms and legs are tied together. A papyrus scroll with spells from the Book of the Dead is placed between the wrapped hands.

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