This instructional packet is intended to help classroom instructors introduce fascinating quandaries rarely featured in history textbooks about the ancient and medieval eras. Most of the 13 lesson plans require only 1 or 2 class periods to complete, permitting the teacher to enhance the presentation of a particular unit without fear of devoting extra time to any one unit. The packet supports a standards-based approach in the teaching of history, covering content identified in the National Standards for World History. The "Introduction" includes a matrix with an overview of each lesson, including its focus question and a description of the activities in which students are engaged. The 13 lessons are: (1) "Hanging Stones"; (2) "The Death of Tutankhamen"; (3) "The Deciphering Derby"; (4) "Panic in Athens"; (5) "Gazing into the Crystal Ball"; (6) "The Great Snake"; (7) "Quinctilius Varus, Give Me Back My Legions!"; (8) "The Mysterious Maya"; (9) "Vanished Vinland?"; (10) "The Children's Crusade"; (11) "The Black Death"; (12) "The Quest for Timbuktu"; and (13) "Strange Statues." The lesson plans provide a focus question; state educational objectives; cite materials needed; discuss preparation; detail a step-by-step procedure for classroom implementation; suggest extension activities; offer teacher background information; and list selected sources. (BT)