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Ice Mummies—Return of the Iceman

Viewing Ideas

Before Watching

1. This program features a number of archeologists who study the Iceman. But what exactly do archeologists do? How does an archeologist differ from a paleontologist? (Archeologists study evidence of past human cultures, while paleontologists study life that existed in prehistoric times.) What other scientists are involved in studying ancient civilizations, and what do they do?

2. Archeologists inferred a lot about the Iceman's lifestyle from observations they made and tests they performed. As students watch, have them create a chart and take notes about each observation or test, what data resulted from the observations or tests, and what was inferred from the data about the Iceman.

After Watching

1. Guide a discussion about what was learned about the Iceman, listing students' notes on the board and clearing up any inconsistencies. What do students think about the conclusions that archeologists drew? What other conclusions might have been reached?

2. This program provided some evidence that the Copper Age should be redated to an earlier time in this region of Europe. Have students research the Stone Age and the Copper Age and the transition between them. What were the defining characteristics of each age? What were some characteristics shared by both ages?