Do you think of dinosaurs and cavemen when visualizing life in the prehistoric world? If so, you are not alone, and you are not entirely wrong either. The term prehistoric refers to the time period long before people invented a system of writing. Because no written records exist of those who lived in the prehistoric era, scientists have had to piece this information together.

In this topic, you will begin by exploring the part of prehistory when early humans emerged, about 400,000 years ago. These early humans developed impressive technologies and methods of survival amidst their unpredictable and threatening environment. You will also learn about the methods that a variety of specially trained scientists use to learn about the ancient past. Let's dig in!

Essential Questions

• What types of scientists uncover the story of those who lived in the prehistoric era?
• How do scientists reconstruct the past and what have they pieced together about the earliest humans?

 

Warm-Up

Specially trained scientists, like archaeologists and historians, use artifacts, or human-made objects, to draw conclusions about historical people, places, and events. Take a moment to imagine you are studying the artifacts in the backpack shown in the image. Then think about answers to the following questions.

• What do these items reveal about the student who owns the backpack? Think about possible interests, activities, and habits.
• What other information did you gain about the student based on his or her backpack? Be careful not to use your personal bias to judge the student.

Post your responses in the discussion area. Then, return to the topic discussion several times over the next few days to read your coursemates' posts. Reply to at least two of them, making sure to offer new insights, ask questions, and encourage further conversation.