Dig™

Archaeology & History for grades 5-9

Travel into the past with DIG as archaeologists and historians explore the mysteries of ancient civilizations. Full of exclusive scoops and photos seen nowhere else, each issue of this classroom magazine features articles about the latest archaeological discoveries, on-site reports from important digs, and special sections done in partnership with leading museums. With DIG, aspiring archaeologists are inspired to continue to explore the past on their own.

In addition to robust nonfiction articles, here is a sampling of the regular features you'll find in each issue of DIG magazine for grades 5-9:

• Did You Know?: Quick fact related to archaeology and issue's theme
• Five Facts: From wacky to humorous to stimulating - and all related to the theme
• Ask Dr. Dig: Answers questions submitted by readers
• Stones and Bones: Brief entries focusing on recent finds
• Joke: Quick - and funny
• The Adventures of Dr. Dig: A cartoon feature that introduces readers to Dr. Dig in the field
• What’s This?: Back cover feature that asks readers to identify an artifact
• Resources: Variety of resources designed to encourage delving into archaeology
• Numbers: Two facts that tell of uncovered finds - how many, how old, how big, and the like
• On the Web: Variety of Web sites that will broaden readers' understanding of theme
• Artifacts: Features an uncovered find (often a piece of art) and several facts about it
• DIG Stuff: Publishes readers’ comments, sometimes with art
• Awesome Art: Publishes readers’ art
• Activities: Engaging, interesting, and mentally stimulating ways to review material in the issue

"What a fantastic resource and educational tool - I only wish I had the opportunity to read DIG^TM in my childhood days." - March Hilveda, President, Into Archaeology

CHINA'S HIDDEN CAVES (Apr, 2008)

Imagine hundreds of caves, all cut into living rock and all in one place! That's exactly what you find in Dunhuang. And, what an incredible feast for the eyes once you step inside and, of course, give yourself time to be accustomed to the darkness. But, wait a minute - where is DIG taking you? - to China and the so-called Cave Temples of Mogao. Today, sand, blowing in as it has for centuries from the great deserts that surround the area, covers much of the area, but once there, what a treat for the archaeologist. Countless rooms filled with magnificent paintings are just waiting to "spill" their secrets. Who are the figures walking about on the walls and ceilings? What's that monster on one wall? How about those eerie, flying creatures? And, what happened to all the scrolls that these temples also guarded? Join us for a trip to a secret place few ever visit. And, while we are there, we "dig deep" to find out what's being done to preserve what remains - so that we do not become some of the last to ever see these wonders.