What do we mean by the term 'hunter gatherer'? - Teacher notes

The term 'hunter-gatherer' refers to a nomadic lifestyle adopted by early human societies, where sustenance is obtained through hunting animals, fishing, and gathering edible plants. This term is crucial for understanding the diet and way of life of early Britons during prehistoric times, particularly in the Stone Age. Teacher's notes for this unit suggest introducing pupils to the concept of hunter-gatherers to help them grasp how these ancient people sourced their food and the roles within their communities.

As part of the learning process, pupils are encouraged to read about the dietary habits of Stone Age people, using keywords and phrases to articulate their comprehension. The use of literature, such as the book 'Stone Age Boy', provides a narrative context for imagining the experience of participating in a hunt, like pursuing a reindeer. The unit also involves documenting the specific tasks carried out by different members of the community, including men, women, and children, to give students a comprehensive view of the hunter-gatherer society and its evolution from the Stone Age through to the end of the Iron Age.