From Nature to Nylons: Highlighting the History of Textiles (School Groups)
Description
Our “Highlights” learning experiences combine guided exploration of gallery exhibits with hands-on introductions to objects from our collection. This tour begins with an introduction to natural fibers such as wool and linen before moving on to the development of plastics and synthetic materials like Nylon and Spandex. Students will learn how major historical events like the Industrial Revolution and World War II shaped the clothing they wear.
Following the tour, one of our museum educators will introduce objects from our handling collection. Multiple themes are available—you can choose whether to focus on the chemistry of dyes, the science of stretch, or the machines that drove the Industrial Revolution.
Offered At
Science History Institute
The Science History Institute is a small museum dedicated to the history of the chemical and molecular sciences. We tell the stories behind the science: histories of discovery and innovation, challenge and change. Our collections include scientific instrumentation and tools of the laboratory, artwork related to alchemy and early chemistry, photography and archives, a specialized research library with a rare books collection, and a growing digital collection. Our main museum and permanent exhibition are on the first floor, with an additional upper-level mezzanine. We also have a special changing exhibits gallery, and regular “pop-up” exhibits in our ExhibitLab and on the exterior of our building façade; please check our website to see what’s new and currently on view!
Our tours and programs are most suitable for ages 12-13 (7th grade) and up.
Details
Subjects
History, Modern History, Women's History, Science
Capacity
50 students, Min 1 chap., 1 chap. per 8 stu.
Duration
45 min.
Activity
Field Trip
Grades
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Postsecondary
Price Options
$3.00 per Person for Non School Group
$3.00 per Person for School Group
$1.00 per Person for Title I School