Discover the basics of architecture and Chicago’s important role in architectural history though artifacts and design-and-build projects.

The Art of Construction
Taking on the roles of architect and builder, students will explore architectural artifacts and then use their creativity and cooperative skills to design and construct their own buildings. Download The Art of Construction.

Discovering Details
Students will explore the details of architectural ornamentation by comparing and contrasting antique and modern artifacts. They will then create their own shoebox interior design. Download Discovering Details.

Tips for Assembling Your Artifact Kit
Our tips and resources will help you build an artifact kit to use with these lessons.

Local teachers wrote the History in Your Hands lessons as part of History Connections and Artifact Collections, a project made possible by a generous grant from the Polk Bros. Foundation.