Smithsonian's History Explorer Resources Related To "The Museum Environment and Preservation"

The Star-Spangled Banner: The Flag that Inspired the National Anthem Homepage

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 15:31:58 GMT

In this online exhibition, students will explore the story of the Star-Spangled Banner by learning about the War of 1812 and the Battle of Baltimore; Mary Pickersgill and the making of the flag; Francis Scott Key and the song that became the national anthem; the legacy of the flag and its use as a patriotic symbol; and the efforts undertaken to preserve the flag as a national treasure. This resource includes interactive activities and educational resources that can be used to further enhance this exploration of the flag that inspired the national anthem.

Preservation and the Power of Light

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 16:05:46 GMT

In this activity, children will learn about the power of light by comparing what happens to paper that has been left in the sunlight with paper that has been left in the dark. They will use a chart to write a prediction ("hypothesis") and compare it to the results of the experiment. They will then think about how light has affected the Star-Spangled Banner and how the flag can be preserved. This activity is included in an OurStory module entitled Making the Star-Spangled Banner. OurStory is a series of modules designed by the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History to help children and adults enjoy exploring history together through the use of objects from the Museum's vast collections, quality children's literature, and engaging hands-on activities. Ideal for afterschool use, OurStory resources allow children to think critically, to be creative, and to achieve academic standards both in and out of the classroom.

Artificial Anatomy: Preservation

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 15:29:58 GMT

Students will learn the methods of preservation used in restoring the papier-mâché artificial anatomy collection. The exhibition covers the necessity for preservation, the examination methods used, as well as preservation techniques. This exhibition is also helpful for those students who are interested in the study of anatomy.