Connect the past with the present at the Penn Museum, situated in an ancestral and spiritual homeland. By studying objects humans made and learning about different cultures, students begin to see how people lived, worked, and expressed themselves in ways that seem familiar to them. Educators can look forward to interactive programs and hands-on materials that bring social studies, science, and the arts to life. The lessons connect smoothly with what students are already learning in school, offering a deeper, more engaging way to explore those subjects. With thoughtful activities and an easy-to-follow curriculum, the experience supports classroom goals while giving students a fun and meaningful way to learn.
There are multiple activities for educators to choose from that align with their classroom’s needs and wants. The Gallery Tours offer students a chance to explore global cultures and ancient civilizations in a way that feels both exciting and meaningful. Each 60-minute tour is led by knowledgeable guides who tailor their approach to the grade level and curriculum needs of each group. Classes can take a deep dive into specific civilizations, such as Ancient Egypt, Ancient China, or the cultures of the Americas, examining artifacts, artwork, and everyday objects that reveal how people lived and worked. Other tours take a broader look at themes such as belief systems, trade, technology, and the development of early societies. These tours help students bridge the gap between real human stories and their impact on lives today.
The new Global Learning Lab gives students in grades 4–8 a chance to explore world cultures in a hands-on, creative way. Part gallery tour and part art workshop, this experience gets students talking, thinking, and making connections as they look closely at objects and artwork from around the globe. They’ll build observation skills, share ideas with classmates, and discover surprising similarities and differences between cultures. Because the program can be shaped around what your class is already learning, it fits easily into lessons on social studies, language arts, or the arts. With plenty of interactive moments and a chance to create something of their own, the Global Learning Lab makes learning about the world exciting, personal, and memorable.
The variety of workshops that Penn Museum offers gives every classroom a different view into the museum’s history and fun. Younger students can dive into Imaginary Creatures of China, where they meet mythical animals in the Asia gallery and learn what these creatures symbolize, perfect for sparking curiosity and creativity. Older students can take part in workshops like Digging Up the Roman World, Mythology and Archaeology: The Minoans, Learning to Write Sumerian, or Ancient Paint Technology, each offering a chance to handle replicas, experiment with ancient techniques, and step into the shoes of past civilizations. These programs make history feel real by letting students touch, create, and investigate, rather than just read about the past. Because each workshop blends storytelling, problem-solving, and hands-on learning, they’re great for students of all ages and learning styles, helping them connect with ancient cultures in a memorable and meaningful way.
There are so many options for learning at the Penn Museum. Whether you are strolling through the museum walls and examining ancient artwork, or getting your hands dirty in an interactive activity, students will walk away with a greater knowledge of the world before them.
