Museum in the Classroom

This program is designed for students to look at objects from a Peace Corps country and both answer and develop their own questions regarding the uses, importance, and background of each object.

This "show and tell" program is ideal for 6th to 8th grade students. The activity engages their creative and critical thinking skills as they are introduced to objects from a culture other than their own. Students will have the opportunity to think outside of the box while trying to answer the question, "What is that?"

Objectives

After completing this activity, students should be able to

• Explain the uses of each object.
• Describe the importance of each object in the country where it’s from.
• Provide a basic background of each object.

Materials

• Objects from Peace Corps country of service.

Procedures

1. Place 8-10 objects or pictures from your Peace Corps country and experience around the room (e.g., book in another language, eating utensil, clothing, photos of your service site).
2. Place a question next to each object (e.g., What do you think this is used for? What do you think this is made out of? Why do you think I needed this item every day?)
3. Split students into groups of two to three. Have each group examine each object for two minutes, and then write down answers to the questions next to each object.
4. Come back together as a group to discuss the objects and their significance. This is also a great time to incorporate stories about your life in your host country and your service.

Extensions

• Ask students to come up with a list of objects they would use if they were conducting this activity for students in the host country. Have them explain why they chose the items they did, and write down questions about each object.