As a historical event, Erebus is one of the most fascinating occurrences in human history. The polar disaster that befell Sir John Franklin and his crew has captured the imagination of historians, writers, and researchers. This grim and harrowing tale of adventure and survival provides an amazing opportunity for teachers to introduce their students to history, geography, biology, and social studies.
To teach students about Erebus, teachers must start by explaining the background and context of the event. They should focus on teaching students about the era, the motivations and aspirations of explorers of the time, and the challenges they faced. Teachers must set the scene by showing students pictures of the type of ships that Franklin used, as well as examples of clothing and equipment used in that era. This will help students understand the difficulties of navigating the polar regions, and the importance of Franklin’s mission in exploring the Arctic.
Historians’ different views about the cause of the ship’s destruction and the whereabouts of the remains of Sir John Franklin and his crew further add to its intrigue. Teachers should explain the motivations of the expeditions and what they hoped to discover, while also examining the events that led the crew to their tragic end. The social and historical context of the time as well as the geography of the Arctic must be thoroughly explained.
To bring the story of Erebus alive, teachers can use many interactive and engaging techniques. For example, they could organize a group discussion in which students can ask questions and compare different accounts of the event. Teachers could also use photographs to show the conditions of the expedition and the challenges of the polar regions. Students might also enjoy researching and presenting information about the crew and their lives, such as the type of food they ate, their daily routines, and their reasons for joining the mission.
Including Erebus in the curriculum is beneficial for students in several ways. By learning about this tragedy, students enhance their knowledge of history, geography, and social studies. The events of Erebus also illustrate the dangers that explorers faced during the era of the great expeditions of the 19th century. Additionally, the Erebus story highlights the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, teaching students about Erebus is an excellent way of introducing them to the history, geography, social studies, and biology of the polar regions. The story of Erebus is a gripping and thought-provoking one, which is sure to captivate the students’ imagination. As teachers, we have an important role in passing on knowledge and inspiring curiosity in our students- Erebus is a prime example of how much can be learned from historical events.
