Education can be taught and learned through a variety of different strategies including interpretation. Interpretation in the field of education is not only provided through books, but also through the growing mediums such as the Internet. Instead of just reading about a subject the Internet allows the user to interact and explore many other options that a book cannot provide.

Read through the collection of Measured Drawings and pick one site that you think is really interesting. Work in groups of two to four people each.

YOUR PROJECT

In this activity you are going to make an interpretive program, to be presented to the class, about one of the Measured Drawing sites.

The idea is to interpret an aspect of history -- but to do it in a way that's educational, informative, fun, imaginative or tells a story. You will need to rely on facts, history, and nuts and bolts research, but you can put all the information you collect into a creative format.

APPROACHES

Historical interpretive shows can be presented in many different ways. Have fun and use your imagination. The list below might assist you with ideas.

• Perform a skit or play based on a historical theme or event.
  
• Re-enact a character. Choose to be an actual historical figure or make up an archetypal figure. You could be a mythical or animal guide.
  
• Imagine the building comes to life to tell its stories.
  
• Go to the archives and collect archival photos.
  
• Put on a puppet show.
  
• Discuss historical events in comparison with modern events.
  
• Create an informative presentation using different mediums--slides, props, music or photographs.
  
• Invent a game to present your interpretive idea.
  
• Produce a group event that everyone in the class can participate in. What about a turn of the century tea party at Cepperly Mansion? Breakfast for the bunkhouse crew of the R.B. Mclean Sawmill. Perhaps you are going to the first dance ever at the Wells Centennial Hall.
  
• Present a guided tour of your own creation.
  
• Take participants on an interpretive walk.
  

THE PROCESS

Brainstorm. Research your topic. Take notes.

• Share your notes with team members.
  
• Brainstorm ideas to develop your creative interpretive approach.
  
• Write your script.
  
• Build, write and rehearse your interpretive presentation.
  
• Gather props, costumes, equipment, artifacts, music, slides, etc.
  
• Have a timed dress rehearsal.
  
• Do your presentation! 20 minutes to half an hour.

See an example of an Interpretive Program