When We Became Human

When We Became Human
Our incredible evolutionary journey

"When We Became Human: Our Incredible Evolutionary Journey" is a children's book written by Michael Bright. This book takes young readers on a fascinating journey through the history of human evolution, explaining how our ancestors evolved from early hominins to modern Homo sapiens. Designed to be both educational and engaging, the book provides insights into significant milestones in human evolution, such as the development of bipedalism, the use of tools, and the emergence of complex language and culture.

Michael Bright is a prolific author with over a hundred books to his name, covering topics related to wildlife, science, travel, and conservation. Many of his works are aimed at children, making complex scientific concepts accessible and interesting for young readers. His background and expertise in these fields allow him to present detailed and accurate information in a way that captivates and educates his audience.

In "When We Became Human," Bright combines his storytelling skills with vivid illustrations to help children understand the evolutionary processes that have shaped humanity. The book covers various aspects of human evolution, including the emergence of early hominins, the development of different human species, and the eventual rise of Homo sapiens. By presenting this information in a compelling and visually rich format, the book serves as an excellent resource for children curious about their origins and the evolutionary journey that led to the modern human species.

Author: Michael Bright

Michael has authored over a hundred books on wildlife, science, travel, and conservation, including many aimed at children. Some of his notable works include "Africa: Eye to Eye with the Unknown," which accompanied the popular television series presented by Sir David Attenborough, and "When We Became Humans: Our Incredible Evolutionary Journey".

Book Details:

Publisher: words & pictures
Format: Paperback
Print length: 64 pages
Dimensions: 21.72 x 1.52 x 30.23 cm
Publication date: 16 July 2019
ISBN: 978-1786038876

Read alongside these topics:

Stone Bronze and Iron Ages

How can "When We Became Human" help in teaching this KS2 History "Stone, Bronze & Iron Ages" lesson?

"When We Became Human" can be a valuable resource for teaching the KS2 History topic on the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages by providing engaging narratives and insights into the lives of early humans. Here are several ways it can enhance the lesson:

Engagement Through Storytelling: Narrative Context: The book presents historical events in a narrative format, making it easier for students to relate to and understand the experiences of people during these ages. This storytelling approach can help students visualize life in prehistoric times, fostering empathy and curiosity about historical figures and their challenges.

Connection to Archaeological Evidence: Understanding Artefacts: The book discusses various archaeological findings that illuminate daily life in these periods. By linking these artefacts to the stories of individuals, students can better grasp how historians and archaeologists piece together the past from material remains, which is a key part of the KS2 curriculum.

Exploration of Key Themes: Change Over Time: "When We Became Human" explores significant themes such as technological advancements and societal changes. These themes align with curriculum objectives that focus on understanding continuity and change from the Stone Age through to the Iron Age, helping students recognize how innovations like farming and metalworking transformed lifestyles.

Interactive Learning Opportunities: Discussion Prompts: The book can serve as a springboard for discussions about what it means to be human, how communities formed, and the impact of environment on lifestyle choices. Students can engage in debates or creative projects based on characters or events from the book, enhancing their critical thinking skills.

Cross-Curricular Connections: Art and Culture: Incorporating elements from "When We Became Human" allows for cross-curricular activities, such as creating artwork inspired by prehistoric cave paintings or discussing early music forms. This integration supports a more holistic learning experience that encompasses history, art, and social studies.

Using "When We Became Human" in conjunction with structured lesson plans on the Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages can create a rich educational experience that captivates students' imaginations while meeting curriculum goals.