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Tours are structured according to grade level of students. Groupings are for K-3 grades, 4-6 grades and 7-12 grades.

American Indian Tour (K-3)

The primary objective of the auditorium orientation of this tour is to introduce basic concepts regarding Alabama's Indians and their lifestyles to younger students. Docents reveal the culture of Alabama's Indians through examples of their customs, ceremonies, and recreational activities. Touching and examining the objects encourages students to ask questions.

The second goal of the American Indian Tour is to help students feel comfortable and confident in a museum setting. Students learn the definitions of words such as artifact and docent, and are introduced to museum etiquette.

Students visit the American Indian gallery, where they learn by viewing the activities shown in the mural of a sixteenth century Creek Indian village.

American Indian Tour (4-6)

The overall objective of the Indian tour is to introduce the lifestyles and culture of central Alabama's Indians. Artifacts on the Touch Cart and in the gallery help create a visual and tactile impression of Indian culture in Alabama. Docents use tools, jewelry, weapons, game pieces and pottery to provide tangible examples of ingenuity and craftsmanship.

A second objective is to help students understand the progress of Indian culture from its origins in Asia to the time of the Indian removal from Alabama. Indian cultural values and lifestyles are compared and contrasted to those of the Europeans to illustrate their affect on each other in both positive and negative ways.

A third objective of the American Indian tour is to stimulate curiosity. Students should leave the Archives with as many new questions as answers.

American Indian Tour (7-12)

The overall objective of the Indian tour is to introduce the lifestyles and culture of Central Alabama's Indians. Artifacts on the Touch Cart and in the gallery help create a visual and tactile impression of Indian culture in Alabama. Docents use artifacts such as tools, jewelry, weapons, game pieces and pottery to provide tangible examples of ingenuity and craftsmanship.

A second objective is to help students understand the progress of Indian culture from its origins in Asia through the time of the Indian removal from Alabama. Examination of Indian cultural values and changes from nomadic hunter lifestyles to permanent communities provide points for discussion. The influence and impact of Europeans on Indian culture is stressed.

A third objective of the American Indian tour is to encourage independent analysis of the issues addressed in the tour. Docents provide insight without forming judgments.

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