10 – 12

History of Ireland in 100 objects

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History of Ireland in 100 objects

What to do with this activity?

An object can tell you so much about a time in history. Have a discussion about what objects would tell the story of today's Ireland. Perhaps it would be the mobile phone? 

Fintan O'Toole wrote A History of Ireland in 100 Objects and chose objects that everyone can see in museums and other places all over Ireland (mostly free to visit). This timeline of objects fits in with your child's 5th and 6th class history lessons. Why not choose one or two objects that are in your nearest museum, and go and see them. Visiting a museum can be boring if you try to see everything. But going to see one or two objects that you have researched in advance makes it more like a treasure hunt. 

 

  • Why am I doing this?

    It’s important to encourage whatever reading your child is doing at this age. Children have their own interests and hobbies so they will be more inclined to read information about these subjects. Having comics, papers or magazines around the house will make it easier for your child to get into reading. Your child might find it appealing to read online and you might like that the book can be read by an automated voice. E books can be looked at when you are on the move, making sure that your child is careful with your computer or phone.

  • How can I do more?

    Your child might like to read a section of the newspaper or a magazine – the sports, fashion or cooking sections - depending on their interests. They might like to read a short piece from a newspaper and underline facts with a pen and opinion with a pencil. You can then talk about the difference between fact and opinion (there are good examples in sports writing). Encourage your child to read instructions for mending bikes, building models and playing new games.

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