Students trace the evolution of recorded communication. Problem-solving activities, short stories, and discussions support student analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of symbol systems used by various civilizations. Through this unit, students will recognize that language is an invention that has evolved over thousands of years and continues to change over time. Students explore the concept that written language is a symbol system and that written language reflects the culture of a society as well as geographical influences. Finally, students come to realize that our understanding of history is based, in large measure, on written records.