European Exploration
Introduction
• Introduction
• Task
• Process
• Evaluation
By Justin DeMott, M.S.A.D. #47
Hop aboard the Trans-Oceanic Web Quest to gain an understanding of how
European explorers discovered new lands seeking gold and glory for country and
God
Men from all over Europe flocked to the harbors to board ships for the chance to
explore new lands past the endless expanse of the Ocean. For God, Glory, and
Gold! These sailors traveled far to claim lands for their country and find riches
beyond imagination. Who will reign supreme over the high seas…Spain, England,
Portugal, the Netherlands, or France? What lands will they find? What cultures will
they discover? How will they effect these cultures? Historians depend on evidence
collected in the form of artifacts created during the travels of the European
explorers.
European Exploration
• Introduction
• Task
• Process
• Evaluation
Task
You are to climb aboard the virtual vessel and accompany an explorer on his
journey. The Captain would like you to create a journal of what you witness on your
adventure. The electronic journal (Presentation using Glogster, Prezi, Powerpoint,
etc.) will include entries that describe at least 7 different aspects (entries) of the
journey. Topics to focus on include: Important explorers, life at sea, dealing with
pirates, encounters with different cultures, government, religion, exploring territory,
etc. Based on the scoring rubric, the Captain will reward those who follow
directions. Those who don’t follow orders shall walk the plank!! 
European Exploration
Process
• Introduction
• Task
• Process
• Evaluation
Step 1: Choose an explorer from each country on the list below (4). Use the links to research
information that will help you complete the Biography Worksheet. Click on the explorers name to
find information to assist you on your quest.
Spain
England
France
Portugal
Columbus
Hudson
de Champlain
Dias
Coronado
Cook
de la Salle
da Gama
de Leon
Cabot
Cartier
Magellan
Cortez
Drake
Marquette
Cabral
Pizzaro
Smith
Verrazzano
Vespucci
Step 2
European Exploration
Evaluation
• Introduction
• Task
• Process
• Evaluation
Use the Scoring Rubric in order to know exactly how your journal entries will be scored. The final
product for this Web Quest should be a compilation of 7 journal entries that are proofread and
submitted as ONE word document (or you can create your electronic journal using Prezi).
European Exploration
Process
• Introduction
• Task
• Process
• Evaluation
Step 2: Write your four journal entries using the information you have researched. Check them
so that you are sure that there isn’t anything you have forgotten to include. Also, consult your
Scoring Rubric to make sure you know how this will be evaluated.
Journal #1
Journal #2
Journal #3
Journal #4
Step 1
Step 3
European Exploration
Process
• Introduction
• Task
• Process
• Evaluation
Step 3: For this process, you are to research one of the most tragic bi-products of exploration
both the explorers and the native people faced during this period of history. Choose one of the
following links in order to gather the information necessary to complete the accompanying
activity. Use the worksheet provided to help you organize your information.
Click on the following links for information about the diseases that European explorers brought to
the New World.
European Disease in the New World
Disease: The Fifth Column
Complete the following Disease Note Sheet in order to organize your information. Remember:
the more thorough you are in your organization and note taking, the easier it will be to write your
journal entry.
Journal Entry #5
Step 1
Step 4
European Exploration
Process
• Introduction
• Task
• Process
• Evaluation
Step 4: During this process, you are to research sailing vessels of European Exploration. Pay
attention to the types of boats, weapons, and technology sailors used. See the accompanying
worksheets to assist you on your quest for information.
Follow link below to find information on the types of sailing vessels used during Exploration. Use
the Sailing Ships Note Sheet to organize your information. You may also want to create a list of
sailing technology helpful in navigation and survival on the high seas.
Ancient Sailing and Navigation
Journal Entry #6
Step 1
Step 5
European Exploration
Process
• Introduction
• Task
• Process
• Evaluation
Step 5: Use the following link to learn about pirates and privateers. Choose an article about
“Being a Pirate” and read the second link about pirate ships. Use the information you gather to
create a journal entry about encountering pirates on your journey.
Pirates and Privateering #1
Pirates and Privateering #2
Journal Entry #7
Step 1