History Detectives

Recommended for grades 3-4
This program is located at the Ainsley House where students explore the agricultural history of the Santa Clara Valley, learn about Mr. Ainsley, one of the first fruit canning pioneer's in the area and use their observation and critical thinking skills to uncover historical artifacts.
  • Full tour of the Historic Ainsley House with touchable objects throughout
  • Rotate through four interactive activity stations in the Carriage House
  • Primary source photo analysis
  • Pack artificial fruit into cans running on a real conveyor belt
  • Make-n-take dried fruit craft
  • Artifact discovery activity
  • Focus on cultural themes of the Santa Clara Valley
  • Allow students to experience history through different sensory activities
  • Includes hands-on artifacts
  • Increase students' knowledge about history and develop an appreciation for their heritage

    •  

    Supplemental Information & Activities

    Common Core Curriculum is supported through:
    Building Strong Content Knowledge:
    Expand student's knowledge of social studies through listening, discussion and hands-on-activities.
    Comprehending a s well as Critiquing:
    Discussions and activities during the field trip allow students to compare and question assumptions about current and historical ideas that provide an engaged and open minded debate.
    Valuing Evidence:
    Students evaluate primary sources such as artifacts and photographs to support learning across content areas.  This allows students to use their reasoning skills in real life scenarios.
    Coming to Understand Other Perspectives and Cultures:
    Develop historical empathy-the ability to understand and appreciate what life was like for people who lived in a different time and place.

    Arranging your visit
     To schedule a field trip, please contact Kerry Perkins, Education Specialist at 408-866-2718 or email Kerry.

    • Minimum of $120 for 20 students or fewer.
    • $6 for each additional student.
    • Hands on History: maximum student capacity: 48 students
    • History Detectives: maximum student capacity: 36 students
    • Teacher and required chaperones are free.
    • Programs available Mon-Fri and only run 9am-12pm.

    Five reasons why school groups should visit museums: 
    1. Museums teach critical thinking, empathy, and other generally important skills and dispositions.
    2. Trips to museums help get kids excited about school subjects.
    3. Museums teach subject-specific content and skills.
    4. Museums expand the general world knowledge of students.
    5. Museum visits increase students’ cultural capital.