Explain how even pieces tiny of pottery discovered through the centuries can tell us much about ancient civilizations. Collect small, whole or broken pottery pieces, plates, cups, ceramic or charm items. Beware of sharp edges on older pottery, plates and broken objects. Place these in plastic containers or boxes big enough for digging and filled with sand or clay cat litter. Involve your students by having them bring in (child-safe) gardening trowels, beach shovels, old toothbrushes and paint brushes for cleaning and polishing their finds. You would be wise to also have gloves, smocks and floor coverings on hand for your classroom expedition.
Fill plastic containers with sand before this class activity. Hide various pottery pieces into sand on different levels. Smooth over sand so that top is level and looks untouched. Encourage each student to imagine himself as an archaeologist digging for something left behind by ancient peoples. Using the trowels and shovels have them search, find and carefully remove their pottery treasures. Clean and polish found objects by brushing with toothbrushes. Set aside and label each piece for the entire group to see.
Instruct students to write about what they have uncovered from the past. Describing what they have found, have them write how this piece of pottery was used and by whom. Discuss how civilizations leave behind bits and pieces of their everyday existence.
Have them talk about what they believe their world will leave behind for future generations. Encourage the imagination of young minds through this historical study and educational play.