Shelly Eaton

February 23, 2003

Christopher Columbus

After reading the book Pedro’s Journal, which is about a young boy who sailed with Christopher Columbus, students will read factual information about the trip and analyze maps of his voyage.

Assignment:

Follow the steps below to learn more about Christopher Columbus and to use map skills that you have already learned.

Step 1: Answer the following questions on a lined piece of paper.

1. From which country did Christopher Columbus begin his journey?

2.

Where did he land? (Where is Plymouth Rock?)

3. Have you heard any rumors that he really didn’t land there? If so what did you hear?

Step 2: Go to the following web site, read it, and take a close look at the maps.

http://www1.minn.net/~keithp/v1.htm

Step 3: Answer the following questions on the lined paper, below the questions from step one.

1. Look at the first map and list three cities close to the port that Columbus sailed from.

2. Look at the fourth map. What path did Columbus take? List each city in order.

3. Was there a more direct route? Why do you think he went the way he did?

4. Why do you think he went further north when he returned to Spain?

5. How would you feel being at sea for a long period of time, in a small ship, with many other men, and little food?

6. Write a paragraph giving your reaction at seeing land after being at sea for many months!

Step 4: Be prepared to discuss your answers to the questions in class!