Angkor Wat is one of the most remarkable historical sites in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. Located in northern Cambodia, Angkor Wat is a vast temple complex built in the 12th century by the Khmer Empire. It is considered one of the most outstanding architectural achievements of the ancient world and is renowned for its intricate carvings, stunning temples, and unique history.

In this project-based learning activity, elementary students can work collaboratively to plan a visit to Angkor Wat while also exploring Cambodia's history, culture, and geography. By doing so, students can develop research skills and learn about the new cultures, history and world around them in a fun and engaging way.

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Printable & Activity Objectives

In this activity, your child will learn and research about Angkor Wat and the basic planning for an overseas field trip:

It will help your child or student:

  1. Learn about the UNESCO protected ancient temple of Angkor Wat.
  2. Learn about the history of the Khmer Empire in Southeast Asia.
  3. Learn how to research a topic and gather information from reliable sources.
  4. Learn about the basic planning for an overseas field trip.

Classroom Resources

  1. Introduction to Angkor Wat: Start by introducing students to Angkor Wat and Cambodia's history, culture, and geography. Use maps, pictures, and videos to visually represent the site and the surrounding area. Discuss the significance of Angkor Wat in world history and encourage students to share what they know about the site.
  2. Research: Assign small groups of students to research different aspects of the trip, such as transportation, accommodations, food, and activities. Encourage students to use various sources, including books, websites, and interviews with people who have visited the site. Ask students to take notes and share their findings with the class.
  3. Planning: After completing their research, have students plan a trip to Angkor Wat collaboratively. Ask them to consider transportation options, lodging, food, activities, and the cost and time required for the trip. Encourage students to use critical thinking skills to solve problems and make decisions.
  4. Presentation: Have each group present their plan to the class. Encourage students to use visual aids such as maps, pictures, and videos to enhance their displays. After each presentation, ask the class to provide feedback and ask questions.
  5. Reflection: After all groups have presented, ask students to reflect on what they learned from the project. Encourage them to consider what they enjoyed about the project, what they found challenging, and what they would do differently if they were to do the project again.

Here's a good introduction video for visitors to Angkor Wat:

This site provides an absolutely amazing 3D animated rendering of Angkor Wat at the height of its glory. The site was created for students and educators:

Virtual Angkor
<p>A virtual reconstruction of the Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia. This comprehensive virtual world draws upon data from a wide array of sources, from archaeological surveys through to historical accounts, photographic archives, textile studies and botanical references. It is designed to take stude…
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What's in the Printable Worksheet Pack

This printable activity pack consists of a creative printable worksheets to complement your project based learning activity. Here's what it consists of:

  • 1 Angkor Wat Site History and Fact Research Sheet.
  • 1 Cambodia Basic Information and Fact Research Sheet.
  • 1 Travel and Transportation Planning Research Sheet.
  • 1 Flight Charting Sheet (Focused on Learning about Continents)
  • 1 Local Food Research Sheet.
  • 1 Packing List and Travel Requirement Research Checklist Sheet.
  • 1 Field Trip promotion poster.

Click on the download link below to get started. Please note that this printable pack is only for paid members.

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