Investigating a North Slope Ivrulik

Discover the past through evidence from an archaeological site in Alaska! In this investigation students will use Alaska geography, history, and archaeology to learn about a North Slope Ivrulik (a sod house) and the Iñupiaq people who lived in them. Examine an archaeological site near Barrow, Alaska. Your students will read an oral history from an Iñupiaq elder, analyze historic photographs, "uncover" a real archaeological site, and make a toggle harpoon! Explore the use of traditional Iñupiaq architecture, and the benefits of using indigenous technology to solve problems today. Includes texts by and about Alaska Natives Supports Common Core State Standards Incorporates authentic data for students to analyze Culturally Responsive Curriculum Instructions for the Teacher The teacher’s document is 29 pages, consisting of background information, and four sections corresponding to the student notebook. It includes archaeologists’ interpretations of the Ivrulik site and details about the artifacts found. Quadrant maps and artifact cards from the archaeological site are provided for the students to study and use. Student Archaeology Notebook The student notebook is 39 pages of data collection sheets about a North Slope Ivrulik. It contains all of the data sources and analytical tools the students will need to investigate an ivrulik from historical, archaeological, and cultural perspectives. Mr. George Leavitt, an Iñupiat elder, guides students through the investigation. Through archaeology students analyze historic photographs, discover artifacts left behind, make a toggle harpoon, and infer how the geography of the North Slope of Alaska shaped the ivrulik. "I feel Project Archaeology curriculum is very rich and provides opportunities for real teaching. One of the things I like about Project Archaeology is the material is interesting and engaging. I am excited when I am teaching the lessons and the students are too." - 5th Grade Teacher, Craig, AK
Bonus! When you buy Investigating a North Slope Ivrulik, you will also receive the essential companion product: Project Archaeology: Investigating Shelter.