Students will be able to...

1. describe how cuneiform evolved over time

2. decipher pictograph messages

3. write name in cuneiform

• SS Binder

• Chromebook

• Pictograph Message Handout and Alphabet Cards (given in class)

• Pictograph Code Cracking Handout (given in class)

• Name in Cuneiform Handout (given in glass)

• Art Supplies

Pictographs: Because Drawing Was Easier Than Spelling

Long before people learned to spell “cat,” they just drew one instead.
Need to say “I have cows”? Just doodle some cows.
Want to say “Don’t steal my stuff”? Draw a stick figure looking mad next to a missing pot.

Pictographs were the ancient version of “show, don’t tell” — kind of like caveman texting.

It wasn’t art class — it was survival. And honestly, if you could draw a decent fish, you were basically a genius.

In short: pictographs were how ancient people talked with doodles... until someone got tired of drawing and invented actual words.

Cuneiform: The World's First Text Messages (on Clay)

Cuneiform was ancient Mesopotamia’s way of saying, “We need to write this down — permanently.” Instead of pens, they used a pointy stick. Instead of paper, they used wet clay. And instead of emojis, they had wedges. Lots of wedges.

At first, it was just for keeping track of stuff like grain and goats, but then they got fancy and started writing stories, laws, and possibly some ancient gossip.

Work in your groups to decode a pictograph message. Correct answers earn extra credit points.

Write your first and last name in cuneiform. Make it colorful. For fun, you can add your favorite emojis to merge past and present forms of communication.