Learning From Objects
Using objects with children does not require huge amounts of specialist knowledge, just curiosity. Before you start using objects with the kids, you should start by examining them yourself. Often there are no right or wrong answers. Exploring all the possibilities is part of the value. Begin by asking questions such as how was it made? What was it used for? Who used it? Drawing and measuring the object helps in observing the details.
Other possibilities: -
Visit a site where you can include object handling in your visit. (see Learning From Objects for where to find handling opportunities).How would the British and Roman people have used them? Create a timeline tracing the changes in an object (e.g. a bowl) since Roman times.
Group objects around themes and compare Roman objects with modern ones. Themes could be textiles and clothing, cooking and kitchen objects and writing tools.
Write the Story of an Object. E.g. How did it get lost or buried, how was it found.
Create a museum. On a visit ask the children to select their favourite object and record it. Back in class they could produce a display or even a website.
Using artefacts in the classroom
Download "Handling Ideas" from the downloads section for creative ideas for using artefacts in the classroom.
Create your own handling collection
A simple way to create a handling collection is to gather objects from different sources e.g. charity shops, home. By choosing a theme e.g. objects from the kitchen or a particular type of object e.g. writing implements or drinking vessels, you can gather contemporary, Victorian and replica ancient objects in order to do comparative studies.
Where to get replica objects
Contact local site
Living History and re-enactment events
Check your educational suppliers catalogue
Search the web with roman replica word searches
