Standards

·        Social Studies: Students will search the newspaper for the modern “blacksmiths,” i.e., technicians in today’s world.

·        Science: Students will report on the science of heat energy.

·        Social Studies: Students will observe real videos of blacksmiths working their trade.

Activities

1.     Use the News: A blacksmith is a little like an auto mechanic today. What other professions can you find listed in the newspaper that involve modern versions of blacksmiths? Think of new technologies such as aviation, communication, the Internet, etc. Who are the modern people that keep things working?

2.     Why does metal change color as it heats? Do some research and report on the science behind the color change. Are there different colors of flame? Is this related?

3.     Use this Web site to view several videos demonstrating how a blacksmith works. When one video is over, others are offered automatically on the same blacksmithing subject. Teachers note: There are videos of all kinds at this Web site. Make sure your students are viewing only the appropriate blacksmithing ones. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upp-GSGilgY&NR

World of Wonder meets many state educational standards. This guide helps teachers identify standards and related activities generally intended for grade 6, but teachers can modify activities to the appropriate grade level.