Longship

High school (ages 12+)
Transportation

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/longship

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 construction technique?Clinker-built, characterized by overlapping timber planks for strength and flexibility
2. What is the primary propulsion?Oars, enabling high speed and maneuverability; supplemented by a square sail
3. Why did Vikings use longships for raids?Vikings used longships for raids because they were quick and could move up rivers far inland. The low deck made it easy to board enemies.
4. How were longships built?Longships were built with a technique called clinker‑building, where overlapping wooden planks were fastened together. This made the hull strong, flexible, and able to handle rough seas.

Clinker-building: A method of hull construction where planks overlap, providing enhanced strength and resilience against wave action.
Freeboard: The distance between the waterline and the upper deck of a ship, influencing stability and ease of rowing/boarding.
Petroglyphs: Ancient art etched into rock surfaces, often depicting scenes or symbols from prehistoric cultures.