The purpose for the unit is to introduce the concept of viruses and how virus diseases are ultimately formed. Then, from a historical perspective, the unit will introduce the diseases of Smallpox, Influenza and Measles and the consequences that these diseases had on the Native American populations that existed on the North American continent. Students will also be able to identify the Europeans who were involved in the Age of Exploration as well as the countries that they represented. In addition, students will be able to identify the methods of transmission or spreading of Smallpox, Influenza and Measles throughout the continent. The main focus of the unit will be the causes and effects of the Columbian Exchange. This exchange helped to fuel the distribution of animals, food products, culture and most importantly disease from Europe to the continent of North America. Students will primarily focus on the diseases of Small pox, Influenza and Measles.