Lesson #2 The Development and Discoveries Of Early Humans

What we learned in the last lesson What is the difference between history and prehistory? Where do scientists believe human life began? Who is Lucy? What criteria do we use to tell the difference between early human groups? What does Homo mean? What are modern humans called?

The Stone Age The period of time when the first humans lived. This period is called the STONE AGE because it is the time when the first humans began to use TOOLS made of stone. The Stone Age is divided into three periods starting with the Paleolithic Era. The use of tools shows the development of the human brain

Types of Stone Tools Early “Choppers” were made by striking stones together to make sharp edges with one side that was uncut that could be used as a handle. These were used to process food; cut, scrape, chop. The “Hand Ax” came later and was an improved chopper with a much sharper blade shape. These tools had more uses like chopping tree limbs and digging holes. The “Flint Knife” was a stone blade like the hand ax but attached to an antler or a piece of wood. These could be used in hunting. These were also modified into “Spears”.

Society A community of people who share common culture. As Humans developed, they began to bond together to form these. Each of these groups then began to develop there own language, religion, art, Etc.

Hunter-Gatherers Early humans were known as hunter-gatherers because of how they obtained their food. These societies hunted for their meat and it was usually the role of the men to be hunters. They also obtained plants, seeds, fruits and nuts by Gathering. Women and Children usually had this role in their society.

language The most important development of early humans! There are many theories about why humans developed language. Some think it made hunting easier. Some believe it was done to develop better relationships. Still others believe it was done to solve problems. What is your opinion and why?