Today I accompanied several groups of 4th graders to the museum. We never entered a building! Instead, we used the "Be Building Detectives" lesson plan found at the Arkansas History Hub and found on the page to the right. Submitted to the Arkansas History Hub by Emily Pennel, the lesson encourages students to investigate architecture. Students were separated into groups and armed with pens and clipboards. The lesson helped the students to pay particular attention to all the details of a particular architectural style.
In addition to the investigation, students had fun peeking into the windows of the Potts Inn. Many swore they saw plates move, portraits wink, and shadows move... This was just enough to whet their appetites for their big tour in May when the Pottsville Jr. High 8th graders will lead the 4th graders on group tours through the museum.
My hope is that by investigating the architecture, students gained vocabulary and experience that will help them appreciate the architecture in their hometown!
Thank you, Emily Pennel, for a terrific activity in Arkansas History!
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