Genographic: Mapping the Human Journey

In this lesson, the first in a set of lessons exploring migration, genetic markers, markers in context, and the Genographic Project (a five-year study of human origins and migration based on genetic markers), students will explore the concept of migration from a historical perspective. As a means of creating a personal connection, students will first explore a modern migration of people with their surname. In a class discussion, students will then define migration, focusing on the different types of movements of people. They will examine causes (such as push/pull factors) and examples of migration, and consider the impact of historical events. Students will then explore prehistoric migration in the Genographic Project and evaluate the reasons that caused the first groups to migrate to the Americas. Finally, students will explore a more modern example of migration and compare and contrast characteristics of ancient and modern migratory patterns. Educational levels: High school