Timeline of Communications, Age 9+

In this era, early humans used paintings and symbols to express ideas, record events, and potentially communicate with others. These visual representations laid the foundation for written language. Children will understand that communication didn’t begin with alphabets, exploring the concept of symbols representing abstract ideas, and recognizing the human drive to share stories and experiences.

Examples: Pech Merle Cave, Cave paintings, track of counting, animal bones, symbols…

This period illustrates the development of alphabets and numeral systems. These standardized systems provided more efficient and accessible ways to record information and conduct trade. Learners will discover the evolution from pictograms to more abstract alphabetic systems, recognize the importance of standardized systems for communication, and understand the development of mathematics and counting systems.

Examples: Hieroglyphs, cuneiform, drum communication, papyrus, quipu, parchment, messenger pigeons, Indus Script…

With the development of writing systems, materials like papyrus and parchment were used to create books, letters, and notices. This is the era of written communication for record-keeping, storytelling, and personal correspondence. Children will understand the impact of written language on society.

Examples: Parchment refined, public notices, Ashurbanipal’s library, smoke signals…

The invention of the printing press revolutionized communication. For the first time, books and other texts could be mass-produced, making information more widely accessible and accelerating the spread of knowledge. Learners will understand the impact of technological advancements on communication, recognize the role of the printing press in democratizing knowledge, and explore the societal changes that resulted from increased access to information.

Examples: Lithography, printing press, first newspaper, quill pen, pencils…

This era encompasses the emergence of new forms of communication beyond the written word. Photography, sound recording, and motion pictures allowed for the capture and dissemination of information through visual and auditory means. Children will explore the impact of technology on expanding communication beyond text, understand the development of different media forms, and recognize the power of visual and auditory communication.

Examples: American Sign Language, photograph, Braille, Morse code, first motion picture camera, first television…

This is the modern era which is defined by the rise of computers, digital data, and social media. These technologies have transformed communication, enabling instant global connectivity and creating new platforms for sharing information and ideas. Learners will understand the impact of digital technology on communication, explore the concepts of data and information in the digital age, and recognize the global nature of modern communication and its potential benefits and challenges.

Examples: Tape recorder, first fax machine, first photocopy machine, word processor, Wikipedia, ICQ, MSN, Skype, Youtube, Snapchat, Instagram…