Lesson Plan for introduction to understanding the nature of gold.
Theme
Gold historically has transcended its purely economic value and assumed an importance equal to magical and religious items.
Objectives
Students will be able:
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1. To understand the historical importance of gold, its economic and “magical value”.
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2. To have an increased understanding and appreciation of the quests of the Spanish Conquistadors for gold in the New World.
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3. To begin to develop an awareness of the tremendous power gold has held in man’s imagination, and as a prelude to the quest in “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre”.
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4. To have an increased vocabulary and writing skill.
Introduction
Teacher will explain the historical evolution of gold, form its quasi-religious nature to its present value as the primary commodity in international monetary exchange. Gold has always held an almost inexplicable hold upon man’s imagination. Discussion will be valuable introduction to “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre”.
Activities
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1.
Library Activity
. The teacher will take the class to the library for the purposes of conducting additional research on the quests of the Spanish Conquistadors in the New World. Students will be expected to outline the exploits of a particular conquistador and write a brief paper detailing the nature of the quests.
Vocabulary
value
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monetary
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allure
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conquistador
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avarice
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legend
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God
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commodity
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enchantment
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plunder
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fable
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myth
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2. Students will define the above vocabulary words. Students will use the above vocabulary words correctly in sentences.
Questions for Discussion:
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1. What do we mean when we say gold has transcended its purely economic value?
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2. What was the difference in attitude toward gold between the Conquistadors and the Indians in the New World?
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3. What are the value and allure of gold today? Are they the same or different from earlier times?