The Pyramids

Timeline:

 3-4 hrs

Key Words:
Pyramids of Giza

limestone

temple

burial chamber

Materials:
graph paper

construction paper

color pencils

rulers

scissors

tape

Pyramids of Giza

Procedures:

1. Have the students copy the following discussion questions from an overhead projector or chalkboard.

   • Who built the Egyptian pyramids?

   • What were the pyramids used for?

   • How were the pyramids built?

   • What was placed in the pyramids and why?

    

2. Using a Smart board or LCD projector, preview the following website with your students. NOVA Pyramid.

3. After previewing this website with the students; have them research the answers to the discussion questions on their own.

4. Review the discussion questions with the students. Make sure to explain why and how Ancient Egyptians used pyramids with the students.

5. Inform student that they will construct their own pyramid.

6. Provide each student a copy of the directions on building a pyramid.

7. Review the directions with the students.

8. Have each student construct their own pyramid.

Assessment:

Completed pyramids will be displayed as part of an Ancient Egyptian Museum.  Invite parents and other classes to visit the museum.

Extended Activity:

Have students design machines that could have helped Egyptians build the pyramids. * Remind students that there was no electricity, gasoline engines or conveyor belts.

Have students imagine they are an Egyptian Pharaoh.  Have them list the possessions they would want entombed and explain why it is important to them.

Web Links:

The Great Pyramid

NOVA: Pyramid- The Inside Story

Build an Egyptian Pyramid

Pyramid Game