Smithsonian's History Explorer Resources Related To "Design Your Own Monument"

Blog Post: Making Room for Blossoms and Monuments

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 16:26:59 GMT

In this post, students will learn how Washington, D.C. transformed the Potomac Riverfront, especially the area of the National Mall where the Tidal Basin, cherry blossom trees, and monuments now stand. Written by Drew Robarge, museum technician in the Division of Medicine and Science, this post is published on the Museum's "O Say Can You See?" blog.

Looking at Memorials

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 15:53:02 GMT

Field trips to memorials are great ways to learn about how communities remember important events. In this activity, students will do a digital field trip to learn more about the Pentagon’s memorial for September 11,2001, and then visit a local memorial. Part of an OurStory module entitled September 11, 2001, this activity includes discussion prompts and background information. OurStory is designed to help children and adults explore history together through the use of children's literature, museum objects, and hands-on activities.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 15:53:23 GMT

This website from the National Park Service is a helpful resource for anyone who is interested in visiting Fort McHenry or learning more about it. A photo gallery and brief historical essays describe the fort, its defenders and the various roles that Fort McHenry has played in different periods of American history, from its construction to the present day. Kids and teachers sections include lesson plans, field trip planning guides and suggested activities for visitors.

Spark!Lab Homepage

Mon, 14 May 2012 12:41:09 GMT

This webiste, from the Lemelson Center’s Spark!Lab, uses fun activities to help kids and families learn about the history and process of invention. Students can play games, conduct science experiments, explore inventors’ notebooks, and even invent! Spark!Lab, the newest hands on space for families and others visiting the National Museum of American History, shows the real story behind an inventor’s work.