TEWKSBURY — Sixth grade students at the John F. Ryan School recently stepped back thousands of years in time thanks to a dynamic, hands-on program funded by the school’s Parent Advisory Council (PAC).
Egyptologist Paulette Morin visited the Ryan recently to present her interactive program, “Having Fun with Pyramids and Pharaohs,” bringing the ancient world directly into the classroom. The presentation complemented the students’ current social studies unit on early civilizations, giving them an engaging new perspective on the rise of organized society in ancient Egypt.
Morin, who has traveled to Egypt 16 times, captivated students with vivid storytelling and an impressive collection of 150 museum-quality replicas. From statues and amulets to elaborate jewelry and clothing pieces, students had the rare opportunity to see and even try on artifacts similar to those worn thousands of years ago.
Rather than simply reviewing textbook facts, Morin expanded on classroom lessons by exploring daily life in ancient Egypt — including fashion, cosmetics, wigs, and even the more grisly details of mummification. She explained how geography influenced Egyptian beliefs and why preserving the body was essential for the afterlife.
“The Egyptians removed the organs to prevent the body from decaying,” Morin told students. “The only organ left inside was the heart, which they believed was the center of intelligence, creativity and the soul. It was too sacred to remove.”
Students were particularly fascinated by the symbolism behind Egyptian jewelry. Morin explained the meaning of popular symbols, such as the Eye of Horus and the lotus flower, which were believed to offer magical protection. In ancient Egypt, both men and women adorned themselves with meaningful jewelry, incorporating powerful imagery into necklaces, bracelets and decorative art.
To close the one-hour program, Morin encouraged students to continue exploring history beyond the classroom. She suggested visiting museums such as the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and checking local libraries for museum passes to share the experience with their families.
Teacher Kristin Romano emphasized the value of the visit.
“This program gave students an incredible hands-on opportunity to explore everyday life in ancient Egypt. We’re grateful that our Ryan School PAC made this experience possible.”
Through storytelling, artifacts, and interactive learning, Ryan School’s sixth graders gained a deeper appreciation for one of the world’s earliest and most fascinating civilizations — proving that history truly comes alive when students can see and touch the past.