Mummification Mysteries: An Ancient Egyptian Investigation

This activity will immerse Year 4 pupils in the fascinating world of Ancient Egyptian beliefs and practices, specifically focusing on mummification. Pupils will learn about the reasons behind mummification, the key steps involved, and the tools and materials used. Through a combination of visual resources, discussion, and a hands-on sequencing activity, they will develop a deeper understanding of this significant aspect of Ancient Egyptian culture. This aligns with the KS2 History curriculum's focus on a study of Ancient Egypt, specifically exploring the beliefs and daily life of the people.

1. Introduction (10 minutes): Begin by asking pupils what they already know or think they know about Ancient Egypt. Guide the discussion towards death and the afterlife. Introduce the concept of mummification – what it is and why the Ancient Egyptians believed it was so important (to preserve the body for the journey to the afterlife). Show engaging images or a short, age-appropriate video clip of mummies or sarcophagi to spark interest.
2. The Mummification Process Explained (15 minutes): Using a clear, visual aid (e.g., a PowerPoint presentation with simplified steps, or large picture cards), explain the main stages of mummification. Emphasise the key organs removed (brain, internal organs except the heart), the use of natron salt for drying, the anointing with oils, and the wrapping in linen bandages. Discuss the purpose of canopic jars and amulets.
3. Sequencing Activity (20 minutes): Divide pupils into small groups (3-4 children). Provide each group with a set of 'Mummification Process Cards' (see Resources). Each card should depict one step of the mummification process with a simple description. Challenge the groups to work together to put the cards in the correct chronological order. Circulate to support and prompt discussion.
4. Group Sharing and Review (10 minutes): Bring the class back together. Ask each group to share their sequence and explain their reasoning for the order. Facilitate a class discussion to confirm the correct order and clarify any misconceptions. Reinforce key vocabulary such as 'natron', 'canopic jars', 'sarcophagus', 'afterlife'.
5. Plenary: Why was it important? (5 minutes): Conclude by reiterating the profound importance of mummification to the Ancient Egyptians' religious beliefs and their hopes for the afterlife. Ask pupils to reflect on what they found most surprising or interesting about the process.

• Visual Aids: PowerPoint presentation or large display cards showing the steps of mummification, images of mummies, sarcophagi, canopic jars, and Ancient Egyptian gods associated with the afterlife (e.g., Anubis, Osiris).
• Mummification Process Cards: Create sets of 6-8 laminated cards for each group. Each card should have a clear illustration and a simple, numbered description of a step in the mummification process (e.g., 1. Remove brain, 2. Remove internal organs, 3. Dry body with natron, 4. Anoint with oils, 5. Wrap in linen, 6. Place in sarcophagus).
• Whiteboard or flipchart: For recording key vocabulary and ideas.
• Optional: A 'mummy wrapping' demonstration using a doll and toilet paper/fabric strips (can be done by the teacher or a volunteer pupil to illustrate the final stage).