Time Tellers
Diptych Sundial
Details: Telling the Time – Sundials [pdf] / Science programme leaflet [pdf]
Key Stage: 3 and 4
Length: 1-2 hours (adaptable)
Maximum number: See Planning a visit
The Museum has wide-ranging collection of early astronomical instruments associated with time including an extraordinary collection of sundials of many different designs. It also has a world-class collection of astrolabes, a versatile calculating instrument used for time-telling, astrology and surveying.
The students begin the workshop with a trail that allows them to explore the Museum’s collection freely. A follow-up discussion gives them the opportunity to examine some original instruments closely and understand the different principles underlying how they work. Students then have the opportunity to make their own working model of an early type of sundial, the pillar dial.
This is a fascinating opportunity for pupils to gain insight into the history of solar time-telling, and to exercise their knowledge of the solar system in understanding the working principles of the sundial.
Timetelling education event (1)
Timetelling education event (2)
