Lesson Overview
In this lesson, students explore a collection of objects, considering their meaning and significance within the context of American history, and noting the traditions within which the objects were made and used. Students consider objects through the lens of tradition using Collecting250, the digital collection of American objects featured by the Decorative Arts Trust in recognition of the United States 2026 Semiquincentennial.

To become better familiar with the idea of traditions, students share and discuss some that are important in their own families and communities. Guided by the teacher, students first examine two quilts and discuss how they might be made in association with traditions. They then carefully consider other quilts in the Collecting250 Textiles gallery, noting the traditions with which they might be associated. Finally, they turn their attention toward the many different objects in the various galleries, choosing two or three to examine while considering traditions. As students investigate objects, they discuss how cultural beliefs, values, and artistic expression influence the making of an object. The students also explore how the objects connect to or tell the story of 250 years of American history. Finally, students have several options from which to choose to demonstrate their new understandings of how objects, seen through the lens of tradition, provide insights into their social, cultural, and historical contexts.

Grade Level: 8-12
Estimated time: Five to six 45-minute class periods/sessions