Timing the Visit
When used at the beginning of a unit, as we did,
the museum visit provides a basis for beginning
work. Scheduled in the middle of the unit, the
visit supplies a broader perspective and also
allows for refinement or correction of initial
ideas. At the end of the unit, the visit
provides an opportunity for validation of what
has been learned and expressed and a basis for
comparison of other cultural perspectives with
those of the students.
Our visit to the museum included students,
parents, and even a grandparent. Our students
were very excited to learn about cultures new to
them. The high attendance on museum-visit day
confirms their interest. We were also fortunate
to have outstanding parent support for the
museum visit and the entire tea project.
Some of the comments I remember hearing from
parents and students include:
"My son is always talking about this
tea ceremony project he has at school. I just
had to come over and see it (the museum) for
myself."
"The visit was a real experience.
Seeing the things in glass cases and then
watching them being used was remarkable."
"I can't believe my child made all
these wonderful things. I'm so proud of what
he has done. Thank you for teaching him."
"I want to sign up for this class
again next year. Can I?"
Murray-Wright High School is a comprehensive,
urban high school with 1,950 students. Our
principal, Dr. Emeral Crosby, provides strong
support for the arts, and has enthusiastically
participated in some of our activities.
Enrollment is drawn from all neighborhoods in
the metro Detroit area and students represent a
wide group of racial and ethnic diversity.
Teacher contact information
Shere DeLaFranier
Murray-Wright High School
2001 West Warren
Detroit, MI 48208
(313) 596 3555
Shere1111@aol.com
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