One of the big topics we cover in 5th grade is the Columbian Exchange. Per usual, our textbooks provide us with literally one sentence on this massive event. So, over the years I have found some pretty phenomenal resources that I want to share with you today!
My absolute favorite resource is a freebie from the website Guest Hollow. Click HERE to go directly to the 4 page PDF:
It's such a simple and fun activity. The students cut out each individual square:
Use the chart to decide where the product/crop/animal originated from, then students glue the squares onto a world map. Super easy, hands on and it drives the topic home.
Great for my hands on/visual learners!
Some other things I have used to teach the Columbian Exchange are:
BRAINPOP! My favorite video website for obvious reasons. Our school has a subscription, but you can sign up for a free trial to check out all the features. Click HERE to check out the resources on the Columbian Exchange.
Last but not least, I love to use PowerPoints when teaching social studies simply for the visual aspect they provide. If the content is boring and dry, you show them a battle scene from the French and Indian War, and they are HOOKED!
Click HERE to grab the PowerPoint I used below with my class to teach The Columbian Exchange:
Click the images below to find a few more examples that are a bit higher level:
I love to cut and paste different slides to make my own. Unfortunately, I want to pay credit where credit is due. If you happen to know where these PowerPoints originate, PLEASE let me know. They are too awesome to not pay credit to the owners!
Have a great day!