The activity “Ferdinand Magellan” was developed using the Learning Magic Text and Graphics Click to Read TGCR template. In this template, the child is presented with a graphic and a text box with one to three paragraphs of information regarding the subject, and that page is then followed by a page with a multiple choice question to ascertain the student’s comprehension of the previously read materials. The child has the ability to go back and re-read the section if desired. Also a child needing extra support can click on the text box and the text will be read aloud to him or her. Behind the scenes we are capturing all their responses and automatically generating a graded report through the IntelliPics Studio 3® portfolio management and reporting system.
This activity traces the life and accomplishments of Ferdinand Magellan. We retell the story of Magellan being born in 1480 to a fairly wealthy family and then serving as a messenger in the court of King Paul II of Portugal. By the time Ferdinand is 25 years of age, he is named a sea captain in the Portugal navy and is involved in several naval battles wherein he wins fame and recognition.
But he is intrigued by the possibly of sailing west rather than south to find a quicker way to the Spice Islands and other areas where valuable food sources and spices can be obtained. He is however rebuffed by the King of Portugal and moves to Spain. There his trip plans are approved by King Manuel of Spain and he sails west to find the fastest route to the Spice Islands, and becomes one of the key explorers during the Age of Discovery.
The activity recounts his voyage to South America, the voyagers’ travails, and the important discovery of the Straits of Magellan, and Ferdinand’s eventual death in the Phillipines. The activity further documents the remainder of the voyage and the final success of one of his ships in making it back to Spain. Although Ferdinand Magellan died along the way, it was his crew and expedition that first proved that you could sail around the world. As a result Magellan is remembered to this day as the first sea explorer to circumnavigate the globe.
The activity can be run on the IntelliTools Classroom Suite Player. But IntelliPics Studio 3® is needed to perform data capture, automatic grading and portfolio management, as well as any editing or changes to the activity itself.
Applications needed: IntelliTools Classroom Suite®, IntelliTools Classroom Suite Player®, or IntelliPics Studio 3®.
Curriculum area: Language Arts and History.
Level: Grades 3-5.
Download activity here: Magellan.zip (1.9 MB)
