Lesson Plan
Teaching with Objects: Lower Elementary
During this lesson, students explore how objects can be used to learn about people, places, and events from the past. Students work together to examine objects and try to unravel the stories they represent. Through this process, students begin to understand some of the strategies that historians use to learn about the past.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Understand that objects provide information about people, places, and events.
- Make predictions based on observations.
Grade Levels
Lower Elementary | Grades 1‐3
Duration
1‐3 class periods
Related Programs
All, Uses content from Meet Victoria
Essential Questions
- How do historians learn about the past?
- How can observations help us to make predictions?
Materials
(see appendix)
- Object Study Worksheet
- Exploring a Tenement Museum Object Worksheet
- Objects brought in by students (to be assigned in pre‐lesson prep)
- Sample object brought in by teacher
Vocabulary
- History
- Detectives
- Artifacts
Questions on lessons and activities?
The materials on this page can enrich a visit to the Museum or help you teach about immigration. If you have questions or comments, please e-mail us.
Are you an Educator?
Sign-up here to receive information on upcoming workshops and school program opportunities.