How do you take a BIG IDEA and share it with the world? You can think about a BIG IDEA like a story that you want to tell. Exhibits, presentations, displays, posters, articles, books, dioramas are all ways that museums and historical societies use to tell history- our BIG IDEAS.
We use research to understand and artifacts to illustrate our big ideas. Use the resources below to come up with your own BIG IDEA and make an exhibit of your own!
WI Content Standards (3-5th Grade)
SS.Inq1.a & b | SS.Inq2.a&b
Objectives
Brainstorm and create a thesis for research.
Identify artifacts and how they are used to tell history.
Conduct original research into a topic using primary and secondary sources.
Teachers: Use the recording “What’s the Big Idea” to introduce students to the objectives above. After viewing use the worksheets provided to help guide student work in developing an at-home exhibit.
Video & Recorded Media
Build your own Exhibit
Get inspired by what’s around you, come up with a Big Idea, do the research, gather artifacts, and create your own exhibit!
Scroll down for an example from our friend Miss. Sophia (with help from her grandma Mrs. Keene):
The Mustard Museum!
Ideas:
Socks | Rooms in the House | Furniture | Tools in the Garage | Toys | Shoes | Ramen Noodles
Use the two worksheets below to help organize your brainstorming, research, and artifacts.
Example: The Mustard Museum
And Beyond, additional resources
Waukesha County History 1870-1920 Photo Archive
Architectural and Historic Inventory – Wisconsin Historical Society
1880 History of Waukesha County
Get in Touch:
If you have questions, suggestions or want more information email our Education Department at [email protected]
