Point of Inquiry

This program is offered in the fall and spring to local bay area schools.

Applications for the 2026–2027 Education Programs have closed.

 

 

Brick masonry arches of Fort Point

Overview

Grade 4

How can buildings and artifacts help us to see the history of a place?

Point of Inquiry allows students to take on the role of history detectives at Fort Point National Historic Site. Designed at the height of the Gold Rush, the Fort played an important role in the protection of the San Francisco Bay against potential enemy attacks. Students will understand and reflect on the impact of the Gold Rush on the area.

This inquiry-based program teaches students to use observations, inferences and questions to uncover the layers of history at the fort. Through this investigation of cultural resources, students will learn that buildings and artifacts can tell powerful stories about the people and events in their own communities.

The Point of Inquiry program uses the Understanding by Design framework and aligns with California K-12 History–Social Science Content Standards and Common Core Standards. The program is framed by the essential question - "How can buildings and artifacts help us to see the history of a place?”

 

How to Apply

Step 1: Educators must complete the Reservation Form at the bottom of this page.

Step 2: Education Programs are only offered on Thursdays from November through December and Tuesdays and Thursdays from January through May. Include three available field trip dates in your program application.

This is a ranger led program for fourth grade. Park staff will follow up with an application status after October 30, 2026.