School Tours

Life in the Ancient World: Egypt, Greece and Rome

Our program, Life in the Ancient World: Egypt, Greece, and Rome, consists of two parts:  the actual visit led by our docent-educators that consists of an hour tour of our ancient collection and a half-hour skit. 

Through direct experience with artifacts and original works of art, students have the opportunity to learn about history, world cultures, art, and archaeology. Post-visit materials to extend the lesson are also provided. 

For those schools within a twenty-mile radius of the Museum, a pre-tour experience preparing the children for what they will see and learn may be available. Where applicable, trained Mount Holyoke College students visit the classroom to lead a discussion on archaeology and artifacts.  This program is designed to support the Massachusetts Frameworks.

Say What You See: Verbalizing the Visual

During this one-hour interactive tour, experienced docents serve as facilitators, encouraging students to “say what they see,” translating the visual image into words and discovering how artists use their imaginations to transform ordinary materials into art.

Students will learn how to look at objects and express what they see as they: 

• Explore materials of sculpture
• Identify various kinds of paintings
• Use their imaginations to jump into a painting and experience the five senses

Visual literacy helps children develop critical thinking skills and provides a means of self-expression and communication.  By encouraging creative problem-solving, our program helps to strengthen confidence and build self-esteem.  The Museum’s goal is to expose children to enjoyable interactive and exploratory experiences with art, and to foster life-long connections with the museum experience. This program is designed to support the Massachusetts Frameworks.