Exploring World Heritage Sites: A Lesson Plan for Kids

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated a range of locations around the globe as World Heritage Sites. From ancient temples to modern architectural wonders, these sites are a testament to human achievement throughout history. For kids, these places can provide a window into the past and an appreciation of the world’s cultural and historical diversity. In this lesson plan, we’ll explore some of the world’s most fascinating World Heritage Sites and discover what makes them special.

Introducing World Heritage Sites

To begin the lesson, introduce students to the concept of World Heritage Sites. Explain that these are locations around the world that are recognized by UNESCO for their unique cultural or natural significance. Show students a map of the world and point out some of the World Heritage Sites in their own country or region. Discuss why certain sites have been designated as World Heritage Sites, such as their historical and cultural importance.

Provide students with some examples of World Heritage Sites from around the world. Explain why each one is historically or culturally significant. For instance, Machu Picchu in Peru is a testament to the Incan Empire’s advanced engineering and architecture, and the Taj Mahal in India is a stunning example of Mughal architecture.

Explain that there are currently over 1,000 World Heritage Sites around the world, and that more are added every year. Encourage students to think critically about why each one was chosen and what it contributes to our understanding of human history.

Learning About World Heritage Sites

To encourage further exploration of World Heritage Sites, ask students to select one site to research in more detail. Provide them with a list of sites to choose from, and ask them to pick one that interests them the most. Give students time to research their chosen site and create a presentation to share with the class about what makes it special.

As students work on their research, provide additional information about the World Heritage Sites program. Explain that the World Heritage Convention was established in 1972 in order to protect sites around the world that are of “outstanding universal value.” Discuss how the World Heritage Sites program has been successful in preserving sites and raising awareness about their importance.

Invite students to share their presentations with the class. Encourage them to explain why their chosen site is important and why it should be protected. Ask questions to engage the students and foster further discussion.

Exploring World Heritage Sites Virtually

To deepen students’ understanding of World Heritage Sites, invite them to explore some of the sites virtually. Show students how to access virtual tours of some of the locations, as well as videos and photos. Ask them to examine the sites in detail and make notes about what they find interesting.

Encourage students to compare and contrast the different sites they explore. Ask them to identify common features, such as architectural styles, and discuss the historical significance of each site. Invite students to share their observations with the class and discuss how each site contributes to our understanding of human history.

If possible, provide students with access to virtual reality experiences that allow them to explore the sites in more detail. Ask them to look for details that they may not have noticed before, such as signs of wear or damage. Discuss how the sites have evolved over time and how we can protect them for the future.

Creating Art Inspired by World Heritage Sites

Encourage students to explore their creative side by creating art inspired by World Heritage Sites. Provide them with a range of materials, such as paint, pencils, and clay, and ask them to create a piece of art based on one of the sites they have explored. Ask them to explain their artwork to the class and discuss why they chose it.

Invite students to share their artwork with the class. Ask them to explain why they chose particular colors or materials, or why they chose to create something specific. Encourage students to discuss how their artwork relates to the World Heritage Site they chose and how it contributes to our understanding of the site.

As an extension activity, ask students to create a portfolio of artwork inspired by different World Heritage Sites. Ask them to explain the significance of each piece and how it relates to the site. Encourage them to use their artwork to explain why World Heritage Sites are so important and should be protected.

Planning a Visit to a World Heritage Site

Encourage students to think about ways they could visit a World Heritage Site in person. Ask them to research what it would take to visit a particular site, such as finding a place to stay, organizing transportation, and understanding the local laws and customs. Invite students to present their findings to the class and discuss the best way to plan a visit to a World Heritage Site.

To further engage students, ask them to create a travel plan for visiting a World Heritage Site. Provide them with a list of sites to choose from and ask them to plan a realistic trip. Ask them to identify suitable accommodation, transportation, and activities for the trip. Invite students to share their plans with the class and discuss what they would like to do when they visit the site.

Encourage students to think about ways they could help protect the sites they visit. Discuss how they can contribute to preserving the sites and raising awareness about their importance. Invite students to share their ideas with the class and discuss ways they can help protect the sites they visit.

Exploring the Impact of World Heritage Sites

To further explore the impact of World Heritage Sites, ask students to research the economic and social effects of the sites. Ask them to consider how the sites contribute to local economies, such as through tourism and employment, and discuss some of the challenges that come with managing the sites. Provide students with a range of sources to research, such as websites, books, and articles.

Invite students to share their research with the class. Ask them to explain how the sites contribute to local economies and discuss some of the challenges faced by people who manage the sites. Encourage students to think critically about the impact of World Heritage Sites and how they can help to protect them.

As an extension activity, ask students to create a presentation about the impact of World Heritage Sites on local communities. Invite them to explain why the sites are important and how they can help to improve people’s lives. Ask them to consider how the sites can be managed sustainably and discuss some of the challenges that come with doing this.

Protecting World Heritage Sites

To help students understand the importance of protecting World Heritage Sites, provide them with examples of sites that have been damaged or destroyed in the past. Ask them to consider why these sites were destroyed and how we can prevent similar events from happening in the future. Discuss the role of governments and UNESCO in protecting World Heritage Sites and invite students to share their ideas about how we can better protect them.

Invite students to research ways individuals can help protect World Heritage Sites. Ask them to consider how they can raise awareness about the sites and encourage people to visit and appreciate them. Encourage them to research ways they can contribute to preserving the sites and discuss the impact their actions can have.

As an extension activity, invite students to create a campaign to raise awareness about a particular World Heritage Site. Ask them to research the site and create a plan to promote it. Provide them with resources to help them create their campaign and discuss the impact their work can have.

Conclusion

This lesson plan provides a great opportunity to explore some of the world’s most fascinating World Heritage Sites and appreciate their unique cultural and historical value. Through research, virtual exploration, and creative activities, students can gain a deeper understanding of these places and their importance. By engaging with these sites, students can also learn about ways to protect them for future generations.

In conclusion, this lesson plan can help students gain an appreciation for the diversity of culture and history found in World Heritage Sites, and provide them with an opportunity to explore and protect these places. By engaging with these sites, students can gain a deeper understanding of the world and its inhabitants, and develop a sense of responsibility for protecting our shared heritage.