History of hide materials

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/history-of-hide-materials

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the earliest evidence of hide processing tools?Approximately 400,000 years ago, found at Hoxne, England, and Qesem Cave, Israel
2. What is the rawhide properties and uses?Stiffens when dried; historically used for binding wood and as drum skins
3. What did ancient people use animal skins for?They used them to make clothes, shelters like tipis and wigwams, and even drums. They also used rawhide to bind wood tools.
4. How did animal skins help early humans survive the cold?Fur capes made from hides kept them warm in glacial climates. The skins also helped keep homes warm.

Paleolithic Era: The earliest period of human history, marked by the development of stone tools and hunter-gatherer societies.
Tanning: A chemical and mechanical process that stabilizes animal collagen, transforming perishable hides into durable and flexible leather.
Parchment: A writing material made from specially prepared animal skins, offering a more durable alternative to papyrus or other early media.
Vellum: A fine parchment, typically made from calfskin, known for its smooth surface and suitability for high-quality manuscripts.