Ancient China Projects

Learning about the past has always been fascinating for young children. This year the fourth grade will take an imaginary trip to Ancient China. Along the way they will learn about this civilization which still exists today through research, children's literature, documentary films, hands-on activities, art projects, and a trip to the Peabody Essex Museum. All of these activities lead to our culminating activity: design your own “cabinet of curiosities” from Ancient China either through arts and crafts, web page design, powerpoint, or iMovie.

Chinese Poetry Unit
During the past four years, our students have been privileged to work with Steven Ratiner, a poet who specializes in the poetry of Ancient China. The quality of poetry the children produce under his direction is phenomenal.  As part of this unit, the children will create their own poetry booklet and scroll using painting techniques and tools from China.

Ancient China Museum Project
At the conclusion of our Ancient China unit in the early spring, the entire fourth grade will be creating their own Ancient China museum. After visiting the Peabody Essex Museum with the eyes of a curator, each child will create their own artifact to display along with a description that might typically be seen on a museum information card.  Examples of artifacts include a terracotta warrior, abacus, musical instrument, paper lantern, pottery, or a paper house.