Industry and Innovation
Grades 3 to 5
Complete an in-depth exploration of a common household item to uncover the history hidden in everyday objects.
Show Me a Flowerpot
By comparing and contrasting handmade and machine-made products, students will learn about the evolution of production processes in American history.
> Download Show Me a Flowerpot (PDF 233 KB)
Time in a Teakettle
Students will compare and contrast antique and modern teakettles in order to explore how the design and production of tea has changed (or stayed the same) over time.
> Download Time in a Teakettle (PDF 218 KB)
A Toast to the Past
Students will use their observation, analysis, and research skills to discover the identity and purpose of a mysterious artifact from the past—the non-electric toaster! They will then make a visual timeline of toaster history.
> Download A Toast to the Past (PDF 340 KB)
Spice It Up!
Students will engage their senses of touch and smell by grinding spices using a mortar and pestle, as they follow the path of famous explorers on the Silk Road to build an understanding of their desire for Asian riches.