Buildings tell us about history, culture, religion, ethnicity, technology, lifestyles, economic conditions and societal values. They are also fun to look at! The study of architecture is an effective tool to teach across academic disciplines and reach children at every grade level.

Lancaster has a particularly rich and varied architectural heritage, one that makes the City distinctive and unique. Students in Lancaster can study the real places where history happened. Knowledge of their architectural heritage will help children and teenagers develop a sense of responsibility for the preservation of buildings and neighborhoods.

The materials available to download here can be used by parents to help their children explore their own houses, streets and neighborhoods. The materials can also be incorporated into lesson plans by teachers in classrooms, as part of a home school curriculum, or as projects for scouts or other youth groups. Adult learners might enjoy these exercises as well!