aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	History
What age group	Year or Grade 7
What topic	Spanish exploration
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Lesson Introduction: The Age of Spanish Exploration

Hook: A Mysterious Artifact

Objective:

To captivate students' interest in the topic of Spanish exploration by introducing an intriguing artifact linked to this historical era.

---

Setting the Scene:

Visual Aid: Begin by displaying an image of a mysterious artifact, such as a Spanish navigational tool or a piece of ancient treasure, on the board or screen. This could be an astrolabe, a compass, or a gold doubloon.

---

The Artifact Story:

Teacher Script:

"Imagine you’re an archaeologist unearthing a treasure from centuries ago. Today, you discovered a unique object buried deep beneath the sands of time – a beautifully crafted gold doubloon. As you hold it in your hands, you begin to wonder:

• Who crafted this coin?
• What stories does it hold from the time of Spanish exploration?
• How did it make its way across the oceans and into your hands today?_

This coin is more than just a piece of metal; it represents an era full of adventure, ambition, and the quest for new worlds. Today, we will embark on our own exploration into the Age of Spanish Exploration! We’re going to learn about the explorers who set sail in search of riches and glory and the impact of their journeys on the world. Are you ready to set sail on this historical adventure?"_

---

Transition into the Lesson:

Discussion Starter: Ask the students to share their initial thoughts on the mysterious artifact.

• Questions for Engagement:
  • What might this artifact tell us about Spanish exploration?
  • How do you think it influenced the lives of those who used it?
  • What other artifacts do you think could tell us stories from this time?

Next Steps:

After the discussion, transition into the main lesson by introducing key explorers like Christopher Columbus, Hernán Cortés, and Francisco Pizarro. Use the artifact to connect to these figures by discussing their voyages and discoveries, leading into a deeper exploration of their impact on both the New World and Spain.

---

By beginning the lesson with a mysterious artifact, you spark curiosity and encourage critical thinking, setting a dynamic tone for the exploration of this exciting chapter in history.