A group of men, women and children stand above a hammock full of harvested hops.

What industries put Reading on the map?

Summary

Reading is best known for the ‘3Bs’ – biscuits, beer and bulbs. Your class has the opportunity to make a timeline, discovering how Reading has been shaped by these and other industries over the years.

The museum showcases many objects and artefacts related to local industries; many of which relied on the countryside and rural communities for raw materials used in the manufacture of their products.

Themes and topics

  • A local history study

Suggested age range

Upper primary and lower secondary

This activity could also be used in conjunction with the ‘What was farming like before modern technology’ and ‘Making and manufacturing’ resources.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this activity students will:

  • be more aware of some of the industries that put Reading on the map and the town’s relationship with rural areas
  • be able to discuss when Reading’s industries first arrived in the town by producing a timeline that outlines key dates ready to take to the museum to find out more.
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