School Tours
CHF's educational programming is designed for high-school and college students who are studying or have studied chemistry. Each school program has affiliated pre- and post-visit activities, as well as an activity to complete during the museum visit.
National and Pennsylvania content standards in science education for each program are available on request. Additional tour topics may be available on request, including tours of temporary exhibits in the Clifford C. Hach Gallery. Please contact us to discuss these topics in more detail.
Current programs
- Elements of Knowledge
Where did chemistry come from? How has our understanding of the world around us changed throughout history as a result of chemical exploration? How does chemistry continue to evolve? Trace the development of chemistry from its roots in alchemy through its applications today. In the process explore how science happens and how the path to discovery is often a winding one.
- Chemistry in the Public Eye
Chemistry and its connection to society is a theme that resonates throughout CHF’s museum. This program emphasizes how science is consumed by the general public, how chemistry is understood by the masses, and how these topics have changed throughout history. What are the ethical and political issues associated with this ever-changing discipline? How has society influenced the development of chemistry and the molecular sciences in turn?
- Creating Chemistry
From its roots in ancient alchemy to its applications in the technologies of today, the development of chemistry can be considered among the greatest human adventures of all time. This program can be adapted to reflect what you’re studying in your class, including the chemical side of health, the intersection of art and chemistry, instrumentation, and much more. Please contact us to discuss this program in more detail.
Additional Information
- Scheduling Your Tour
School tours are scheduled Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Please allot approximately two hours for your program. Please note that the museum will be closed from January 30-February 8, 2012.
- Group Size and Chaperones
We can accommodate up to 35 students per visit and require a 1:10 chaperone-to-student ratio for all groups. Chaperones are expected to stay with the students at all times.
- Fees
The cost of each museum education program is $2 per student. Fees may be submitted in the form of cash or check (payable to Chemical Heritage Foundation) on or before the date of your tour.
If you have any questions, or if you have difficulty covering the school-group fees, please contact Gigi Naglak, outreach coordinator, at 215.873.8258 or tours@chemheritage.org.
Reserve a school tour here.