Using Artifacts to Learn

For class, we were asked to bring in 5 artifact that we believe represent us or that are important to us.  At first, I had no idea what I was going to bring in. I knew that I wanted to bring in my engagement ring, since it meant to much to me.  I also brought in a pearl bracelet that my mother got for me several years ago, something I cherish very much.  Since I could not bring my family in, I decided to bring in a couple photo's. Lastly, I brought in my dog's collar.  I wasn't sure what everyone else was going to bring in, because I know we all are so different.  When we brought out our artifacts and circulated around the room, I was very shocked.  I was surprised to see that many of my classmates brought in photo's of their families, dog bones, and jewelry.  Others brought in Bibles, some brought movies, but for the most part, a lot of us were similar.
 
After piling all of our artifacts onto one table, we were able to see how our artifacts could help future generations learn about our history and culture.  We discussed how people could look at our artifacts and be able to tell that we were all female as well as our religion, by looking at the Bible.  They could also tell that we valued our families.  Others had brought in camera's and "Nooks". This would help be able to tell what kind of technology we had.

I believe this is a great activity to do with students to help students get to know one another.  I was able to learn a lot about my classmates and what they valued most.  I enjoyed hearing their stories and looking at things that are irreplaceable to them. A lot of what we know about history is based off of artifacts, images, and other things left behind.  I believe this is a great way for students to discuss history and culture.  We can learn so much through objects and images.  As a teacher, I believe it is important to supply as many images and items that relate to a specific topic, so students are able to see what another culture or time period was like.  It can give them the sense of living in that time period or what it is like to be that person.

Below is an excellant lesson plan from a website (ReadWriteThink.org) that offers a great way to use artifacts, interviews, and photos to learn about a time period. The lesson plan is for older students, but can easily be adapted to younger students.
Using Artifacts in the Classroom

This is an image of all of our artifacts. By looking at these artifacts, you can begin to sense what it is like to be in our E325 class.