Display the Old vs New Communication Devices – Sorting Activity. As a class, sort the communication devices into old and new. Encourage the students to justify their decisions as they sort the communication devices and discuss how each device has changed over time.
Display slide 11. As a class, sort the communication devices into old, still in use and new. Discuss how the devices still in use have changed over time.
Display slide 12. Use the pictures to sequence the progression of the telephone. Discuss the changes that have been made over time and encourage the students to suggest why these changes may have occurred. Ask the students:
What type of phone to you use at home?
Have you always had the same phone?
What type of phone do you think your grandparents might have had when they were a child?
Display slide 13. As a class, discuss what modern communication devices have replaced the carry pigeon and Morse code.
Once the students have finished, encourage volunteers to share their comparison of past and present communication devices with the class.
Place the students into small groups. Provide each group with a Past and Present Communication Board Game. Explain to the students that they will need to use their knowledge of past and present communication devices to move their way around the game board. Monitor and support the students as required.
Encourage more capable students to assist others and share their ideas during group work and class discussions.
Encourage less confident students to participate in group work and class discussions at a level at which they feel comfortable.
Provide the students with a copy of the Communication Then and Now - Worksheet for the independent task and ask the students to illustrate the modern version of the typewriter, telephone and carry pigeon.
Suggested Assessment Strategies
used strategic whole class or individual questioning
observed student participation during learning activities