artefacts

Definition: Artefacts are objects like props, posters, or maps that help show who a character is, where a story takes place, or what's happening in the story.

In a story about a pirate, a treasure map is an artefact that advances the plot.

How to teach this in 30 seconds

Try this analogy: Artefacts are like the special toys you use when playing make-believe to show who your character is, like a crown for a queen or a map for a pirate.

Ask your child: What special object would show this character is a pirate?

Common mix-up: Kids may think an artefact is just a random object. These objects are actually special clues that tell us more about the characters, the setting, or what is happening.

Examples

A letter a character receives is an artefact that can reveal a secret.
A superhero's cape is an artefact that helps establish who they are.
A poster on a classroom wall is an artefact that tells us where the story is set.

artefacts is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.

+2 more mentions across the curriculum

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The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗

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