How do you take a BIG IDEA and share it with the world? You can think about a BIG IDEA like a story that you want to tell. Exhibits, presentations, displays, posters, articles, books, dioramas are all ways that museums and historical societies use to tell history- our BIG IDEAS.

We use research to understand and artifacts to illustrate our big ideas. Use the resources below to come up with your own BIG IDEA and make an exhibit of your own!

WI Content Standards (3-5th Grade)
SS.Inq1.a & b | SS.Inq2.a&b

Objectives
Brainstorm and create a thesis for research.
Identify artifacts and how they are used to tell history.
Conduct original research into a topic using primary and secondary sources.

Teachers: Use the recording “What’s the Big Idea” to introduce students to the objectives above. After viewing use the worksheets provided to help guide student work in developing an at-home exhibit.

Video & Recorded Media

Build your own Exhibit
Get inspired by what’s around you, come up with a Big Idea, do the research, gather artifacts, and create your own exhibit!

Scroll down for an example from our friend Miss. Sophia (with help from her grandma Mrs. Keene): The Mustard Museum!

Ideas: Socks | Rooms in the House | Furniture | Tools in the Garage | Toys | Shoes | Ramen Noodles

Use the two worksheets below to help organize your brainstorming, research, and artifacts.
Big Idea & Label Worksheet
Artifact Detective

Example: The Mustard Museum

And Beyond, additional resources

WCHSM Collection Online

Waukesha County History 1870-1920 Photo Archive

Architectural and Historic Inventory – Wisconsin Historical Society

1880 History of Waukesha County

Get in Touch:
If you have questions, suggestions or want more information email our Education Department at education@wchsm.org.