Grade 2, 2 hours
September - June
In this popular program, kids learn about how things were made in pre-industrial Nova Scotia as they make their own traditional crafts. The printing press and the loom are featured as examples of technology used in early 19th century Nova Scotia.
Students also accompany a Museum interpreter on a tour of the pre-industrial exhibits, and use interactive displays to learn about the use of hand tools, simple machines, and water power in manufacturing products.
Students are divided into small groups to take part in the tour and craft activities, and each group participates in all components of the program.
Through the Life before Steam program, students will:
- Demonstrate an understanding that people have changed technology over time to meet their needs, wants, and interests.
- Discover how lifestyles of the past are different from today due to technological changes.
- Develop an understanding of the changing nature of work over time.
- Learn how work, including children’s work, has changed from past to present.
This program supports curriculum outcomes for Grade 2 Social Studies units, Technology and Economics.
Program timeline – Pioneers: Life before Steam
- Arrival, bathrooms, hang up coats
- 5 minutes: Welcome and introduction
- 35 minutes: Tour of pre-industrial exhibits
- 35 minutes: Printing Press activity
- 35 minutes: Weaving activity
- 5 minutes: Conclusion and dismiss