Exploration Project

Kaiserslautern Middle School

Ms. Moss

Project Guidelines: Every student should choose ONE of the following projects to complete.
The goal of this project is to expand your knowledge of a particular topic that we touched on in class. It
is not to simply retell the information that you already have in your notes. Projects that just restate

information and show no indication that further research was completed will not be given credit.
Every project should list at least 3 sources. These can be a mix of primary (first-hand accounts) and
secondary sources. Be sure the sources you choose are valid and reliable. Wikipedia will NOT be
allowed as a source or website. Attach or paperclip your list of sources on a typed piece of paper, stating

your name, class period, and which project you chose.

All projects will be grade based on accuracy of information, thoroughness of information presented,

effort and neatness.

Copying information directly from a source is plagiarism and is not acceptable under any circumstances.
If you are having trouble putting information in your own words, please see Ms. Moss or Ms. Huff for
help. Plagiarized projects receive an automatic zero.

Project Option One: I really like to write

Explorers Log

Create log entries from any explorer that we discussed in class. Events should be based on further research
you have completed on the explorer. Reiterated class information will not be given credit. There should be a
total of at least four journal entries. The first journal entry details your process to get funded. The second
and third entries detail your time at sea. The last journal should detail your arrival to the New World. Each
entry should be at least 7 sentences long and you may type your journals. Extra credit will be given to those
who write their journals and show creativity in creating an authentic-looking journal. The cover page or inside
page should clearly have your name, class period, and explorer researched written. Be prepared to present a
3 minute presentation about your research as well.

Project Option Two: I am good at building things

Model of a Ship

Research the caravel (the type of ship used by Columbus on his voyage). On an index card, provide a two
paragraph (of at least 6 sentences each) summary of the information you found about this ship, along with your
sources. This should include the size of the ship, the items used to make it, the years in which the ship was
widely used, and any other information that you find. Next, use items to attempt to recreate a model of the

same ship that you researched. Models should be large enough to explain your information. Be prepared to
present a 3 minute presentation on your model ship as well.

Project Option Three: I like giving presentations and teaching

Presentation

Many of the explorers that we studied faced the problem of mutiny. Create a presentation for future explorers
that explains at least five steps they could take to prevent mutiny and have peace on the ship while sailing.
Create a handout that lists your five steps along with any other important information that you think would
be helpful in leading a crew of people. Be prepared to present a 5 minute presentation on your research and
steps. A PowerPoint, Prezi, or any other visual presentation is also required. You may make yourself note
cards to stay on track.

Project Option Four: I like thinking deeply and writing

Native American Perspective

Retell the story of exploration from the Native American viewpoint. Do some research on the tribe that you
choose and how they were affected by the Europeans. The project should be done in journal format, or at least
4 journal entries. The entries should cover your initial reaction and thought about the European explorers,
how your tribe and the Europeans interacted, how your relationship with the Europeans changed over
time, and your final impression and what outcome(s) you want from the Europeans. Each entry should be at
least 7 sentences long and you may type your journals. Extra credit will be given to those who write their
journals and show creativity in creating an authentic-looking journal. The cover page or inside page should
clearly have your name, class period, and Project Four written. Be prepared to present a 3 minute
presentation about your research as well.

By Friday, October 23, you must tell me which project you are choosing and its topic. You
may not change your project or topic after this date!

THIS PROJECT WILL BE DUE ON November XX, 2015. Projects without a name, class
period or other required information for the cover will be deducted 5 points. Projects
turned in without their rubric will also be deducted 5 points. Late projects will receive a
zero!