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Interpreting the Evidence

Poster Comparing Dirty Windows to Clean Windows, c. 1900

Student View

About this Activity

  • Documents in this Activity:
  • Historical Eras:

    Turn of the Century and WWI (1890 - 1930)

  • Thinking Skill:

    Historical Analysis & Interpretation

  • Grade Level:

    Lower Elementary
    Upper Elementary
    Middle School
    High School
    College University

  • Topics:

    Education
    Environment

  • Primary Source Types:

    Broadside

  • Regions:

    New York State

  • Creator:

    NYS Archives Partnership Trust Education Team

  1. Load Poster Comparing Dirty Windows to Clean Windows, c. 1900 in Main Image Viewer

Suggested Teaching Instructions

Document Description
A poster that compares dirty windows to clean windows and suggests that dirty windows may have an effect on student eyesight, circa 1900.
Historical Context
In the early 1900s, educators were aware of the importance of comfortable facilities in the school building.  Posters and informational pamphlets were published to remind teachers and school administrators of the importance of these facilities to students and how well they learned.
 
Essential Question
How does culture influence a society's education system?
 
Check for Understanding
Identify the main idea of the poster and explain its overall purpose.
Historical Challenges
Research what changes have been made in American schools in the past two hundred years to make them healthier environments for students.
 
Interdisciplinary Connections
Math: What is the percentage of classrooms in your school that have windows? What percent do not have windows?
Science: How does the human body react to sunlight? How can sunlight benefit your health?
English Language Arts: Write a letter to a school board member suggesting changes that could be made in your school to make it a healthier environment for students.
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