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Viking Deception, The
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Viewing Ideas
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Before Watching
Ask
students what they know about the Vikings and their colonization of other
areas? (The Vikings were a people from Scandinavia who were farmers, traders,
shipbuilders, and colonizers; they began colonizing in the second half of the
eighth century when they raided England.) How far west did they colonize?
(There is archeological evidence of a Viking settlement on Newfoundland.)
What do students think of when they hear the word forgery? Define forgery
for students. (The act of falsely making, altering, or imitating something with
the purpose to defraud.) What kinds of items are forged? (Some examples include
money, art, historical artifacts, and check signatures.)
Divide the class into three teams and have them take notes on one of the
following topics: evidence that the Vinland Map was forged, evidence that the
map is authentic, and why the Vinland Map is important.
After Watching
Hold a discussion about the topics students took notes on while watching.
Discuss the evidence supporting and disproving the forgery. How does it
compare? Poll students to find out whether they believe the map is authentic.
If students have differing opinions, ask them to explain the reasoning behind
their views. Conclude by discussing what it means if the map is or is not
authentic.
Scientists used a number of different technologies to examine the map's
parchment and ink. Have students choose and research one of the technologies
featured in the program. Ask students to write a one-page paper on how the
technology works and what it is used for.
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