Vikings Could Have Used ‘Sunstones’ to Navigate the North Atlantic

WORLD For centuries, Viking seafarers ruled the North Atlantic, braving open seas to travel thousands of kilometers to their colonies in Iceland and Greenland—all without magnetic compasses. How they performed such a feat has long puzzled scientists. Now, one group of researchers has an answer, based on computer simulations—and legendary crystals. (Science) What were Viking sunstones? Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key … Continue reading Vikings Could Have Used ‘Sunstones’ to Navigate the North Atlantic

Iceland Is Growing New Forests for the First Time in 1,000 Years

ENVIRONMENT Within a few centuries, Iceland became “among the worst examples in the world of deforestation.” Today, the Icelandic Forest Service has taken on the mammoth task of bringing back the woodlands. (National Geographic) Use today’s simple MapMaker Interactive map to help students understand land-use patterns in Iceland. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers Toolkit, including a link … Continue reading Iceland Is Growing New Forests for the First Time in 1,000 Years

Reconstructing Ancient Ruins

WORLD Architectural ruins provide a fascinating window into the past: how people lived, the spaces they inhabited and their daily lives. (Expedia Viewfinder) Use our collection of resources on architecture to help students better understand how structures help define societies. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers Toolkit. Discussion Ideas What building is this? It’s the main building of … Continue reading Reconstructing Ancient Ruins

Learning History Through the Eyes of Women

Growing up, I spent hours and hours reading. During any given week, I would read three or four different books. Nancy Drew, Trixie Belden, and Laura Ingalls were my literary companions. I inhaled books, I was the one who read under the covers by flashlight, long after my bedtime. To say reading was my hobby was an understatement: It was my life. My community was … Continue reading Learning History Through the Eyes of Women

Florida’s Flamingos Were Hiding in Plain Sight

ENVIRONMENT It turns out that Florida’s prettiest pinkos are natives of the Sunshine State after all. (National Geographic) Learn more about American flamingos with the Photo Ark! Discussion Ideas What is the species range of the American flamingo? Until recently, the species range of the American flamingo was thought to be mostly in the countries of the Caribbean—hence the bird’s other name, the Caribbean flamingo. … Continue reading Florida’s Flamingos Were Hiding in Plain Sight