Key Concepts

Come Prepared

Teaching in the Exhibition

Be an Exhibition Explorer

Map of the Exhibition

Back in the Classroom

Gold in Many Forms

Mixing Metals

Connections to Other Museum Halls

Glossary & Reference Lists

Standards Correlations

Credits

Come Prepared

Review this guide and additional online resources to plan your visit to GOLD. For general information about school visits to the Museum, visit the Museum's "Plan Your School Group Visit" page.

Class Discussion
Before you arrive, discuss the Key Concepts with students. To start the dialogue, ask:

What do you think of when you hear the word "gold"?

What are different ways gold is used?

How do you think society values gold compared to other metals?

What does gold adornment signify to the wearer and an observer?

Observation Activity
Students will be observing objects in the exhibition. Have them practice this important scientific skill beforehand by inspecting either a natural specimen (a rock) or an artifact (a coin). Students can use magnifying lens, metric ruler, balance, or other tools to:

Measure its size and mass

Describe its shape, color, texture, and hardness

Record what is visible under magnification (crystals? the engravers' initials?)

To extend the activity, have students compare and contrast with other rocks and coins. They can also infer the significance of the artwork on the coin.