January 10, 2001

Mammals/Trade Rat

Learning Links: Trade Rats -- Learner Page

 

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What sorts of things do you think a trade rat might pick up. Circle anything in this list that a trade rat might take back to its midden:

Now, write down any other ideas of things you might find in a trade rat midden.

Play the game "Fill the Midden" according to the instructions given by the facilitator. Remember, you want to get as many objects as possible. After you have played the game, answer/discuss these questions:

• Do you think a trade rat would take all the things on the cards? Why or why not?

   

• Were you always happy with the trade you got when someone asked for a card in your hand? Do you think people are always happy with the item a trade rat might give them in exchange for something else?

   

• What types of things could damage or destroy a midden? List both things that humans do and things that just happen naturally.

   

• Do you think a trade rat could be in danger because of something it took? What sorts of things could be dangerous? Again, you can consider both natural and man-made items.

   

• If you like, try to develop a set of cards for yourself, either using pictures you find or that you draw.

   

Desert Diary is a joint production of the Centennial Museum and KTEP National Public Radio at the University of Texas at El Paso.