Talking with historians, dressing up in period clothes, and reenacting the lives of historical figures are all part of the weeklong learning experience called The BIG History Lesson. Students and teacher use the Michigan Historical Museum as their classroom for an extended, in-depth study of Michigan history.

• Apply to participate in The BIG History Lesson!

The BIG History Lesson began here at the Michigan Historical Museum and received a 2000 Certificate of Commendation from the American Association for State and Local History. The week's lessons are correlated with state standards, and assessment tools are used throughout the experience.

Activities during The BIG History Lesson week are teacher-led and student-centered and can include speakers, behind-the-scenes tours and students working cooperatively on research. Children participate in presentations, discussions, drama, writing, sketching and a variety of other interdisciplinary lessons while at the museum.

The fee for the 2009-2010 BIG History Lesson week is $150. (There will no longer be a discount for early payment. Fees are due on or before May 15, 2010. Due to the state budget and departmental shifts, fees for the Big History Lesson will increase for the 2010-2011 school year. More details will be posted.) The fee allows the BIG History Lesson teacher to use the museum as a classroom for five consecutive days and covers the cost of one museum-provided presenter per day. All fees are nonrefundable.

To prepare, teachers participate in a BIG History Lesson planning and professional development workshop, where they learn about the museum and its resources. (Cost for first-time BHL teachers, $50; returning BHL teachers, $15.) The workshop emphasizes object-based learning, thematic study and the use of community resources as teaching and learning tools. Teachers work with the program coordinator to develop a unit of study, including activities, resources and museum support needed for their BIG History Lesson week.

Other costs typically incurred by BIG History Lesson classes and not covered by the $150 fee include transportation to and from the museum each day, BIG History Lesson t-shirts and incidental school supplies. Teachers often find funding for BIG History through their parent/teacher organizations and local service clubs.

For more information about The BIG History Lesson at the Michigan Historical Museum, telephone Laurie Catherine Perkins at (517) 241-0731 or send e-mail to PerkinsL1@michigan.gov.

Go to:

• Teaching Michigan History home page
• Michigan Historical Museum home page
• Michigan Historical Center home page

Updated 07/30/2009