Xplorer Squad: Exploring Bangkok’s Urban History Through Maps, Photographs, and Place-Based Learning

Secondary School

The two-day lesson plan is designed for secondary school students to learn about and explore Bangkok’s past in its historic districts through hands-on activities. Using historical maps, archival photographs, and direct field observation, students investigate how the area around the capital has changed over time and how the physical evidence and sites along the learning route reveal Siam’s adaptation to modernity. The lesson emphasises teamwork, critical thinking, and visual storytelling.

The teaching package includes a comprehensive teacher’s guide, worksheets, games, sets of historical and contemporary photographs, and a heritage trail walking map. These materials are designed for both classroom and on-site use, supporting learning in history, geography, and social studies, as well as promoting place-based education beyond the classroom.

Compiler : Chewasit Boonyakiet

Rattanakosin Historic Area , Reign of King Rama IV , Reign of King Rama V , Reign of King Rama VI , Reign of King Rama VII

Learning Objectives

This lesson plan aims to foster historical thinking through inquiry-based, place-based learning in Bangkok’s historic district. By engaging with maps, photographs, and real-world urban spaces, students will:

Develop spatial and visual literacy by reading historical maps and photographs
Understand urban transformation in Bangkok and its connection to the modernisation of Siam (Siam Mai)
Practise observation, comparison, research, and collaborative problem-solving
Synthesise historical and contemporary information through visual storytelling
Connect classroom learning with direct experiences in the city

Teaching Methods

Day 1 – Classroom Skill-Building

Before starting the hands-on activities, teachers are advised to watch a 40-minute lecture by Associate Professor Dr Pirasi Phowathong, Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University. The video introduces key concepts in urban morphology, the idea of the city as a palimpsest, and the transformation of Bangkok during the Rattanakosin period, providing a framework for “reading the city” in both spatial and historical dimensions. It is recommended to watch the lecture “Reading the City: Bangkok’s Development” via the online resource page: [Insert final resource URL]. The lecture lays the foundation for Day 1 activities by helping students understand the city’s visual structure, how to interpret historical maps and photographs, and how to prepare for field observation. It also explains the city’s systems (e.g. canals, street patterns, zoning) and introduces examples of urban changes that students will encounter along the walking route.

Reading Historical Maps

Begin with the game “Pin the Place”, using clues and cropped images to locate places on a printed Google Map. This activity trains quick decision-making and builds geographical familiarity. Use the document: Map Reading Game - PinThePlace (XplorerSquad). - Next, students analyse urban change through three historical map periods — 1887, 1932, and the present — to understand spatial development and the emergence of modernity. Use the document: Guided Activity - Map Reading (Xplorer Squad), and download the three map sets from the online resource: Xplorer Squads: Unlock the Past – Map Set.

Reading Historical Photographs

Start with the Mystery Image game, using cropped sections of historical photographs to spark curiosity and practise visual analysis. Use the document: Photograph Reading Game Mystery Images (Xplorer Squad). The teacher reveals different sections of the image, and students compete to identify the subject, location, or event depicted.
In the workshop, each group analyses two historical photographs related to their assigned site. They apply observation techniques, online research, and group discussion to explore the site’s meaning within the context of “Modernising Siam.” Students use sticky notes to record and categorise their findings, noting observed details, verified information, and discussion points. Use the following documents:
Photograph Reading Guideline (XplorerSquad)
Photograph Reading Worksheet (XplorerSquad)
Example Images for Photograph Reading (XplorerSquad)

Day 2 – Field Exploration and Synthesis

Field Exploration

In the morning, students follow the designated heritage trail. Each group focuses on two specific sites studied during Day 1, taking current photographs of these locations and comparing them with the historical images they analysed previously. Use the document Xplorer Squad - Heritage Trail Map to guide the visit and navigate between sites.

Synthesis and Presentation

In the afternoon, each group presents their old–new photo comparisons, accompanied by explanations, observations, and a title. Presentations are created on flip chart sheets and should be delivered creatively to the class. Materials include flip chart paper, markers, glue, sticky notes, and printed copies of images.

Assessment Methods

Assessment focuses on both the learning process and the final outputs, using four dimensions: Participation & Collaboration; Analytical Thinking & Use of Evidence; Synthesis & Communication; Historical Reflection & Meaning-making. Teachers can assess through observation, worksheet review, group outputs, and presentations. Use the attached “08_Assessment_ENG” to score quickly and consistently.

What we assess (four dimensions)
1) Participation & Collaboration (process, individual, 0–3)
We look for active and fair participation across the activity: contributing ideas and decisions, asking relevant questions, staying focused during the on-site walk, and sharing roles/supporting peers.
2) Analytical Thinking & Use of Evidence (process → product, group, 0–3)
We judge the quality of thinking shown in the four-part photo worksheet (observation, inquiry, interpretation, planning), attention to historical details in maps/photos, and basic verification using tools (e.g., quick searches with notes on what was checked).
3) Synthesis & Communication (product, group, 0–3)
We evaluate how clearly the team connects past and present: accurate then/now matching, clear explanation of similarities, differences, and reasons for change, and effective visual design (captions, arrows, colour, timeline) that improves understanding.
4) Historical Reflection & Meaning-making (product, group, 0–3)
We look for concise reflection that goes beyond description: how the site connects to “Modernising Siam”, why certain changes occurred, what they imply about Thai society, and why learning history through place matters.

Scoring method (simple & fair)

C1 Participation is scored per student (individual, 0–3).
C2–C4 are scored per team (group, each 0–3).
Student total = C1 (individual) + C2 + C3 + C4 (team) = /12
Proficiency bands: 10–12 Proficient | 7–9 Developing | 0–6 Emerging.

Duration

The full lesson spans 2 consecutive days, ideally structured as follows:

Day 1 (3.5–4 hours): Classroom activities — map reading and photograph workshops
Day 2 (3.5–4 hours): Morning trail walk (approx. 2.5 hours) and afternoon group synthesis and presentations

The timeline is flexible and can be adapted to suit school timetables, with optional extensions for independent research or expanded creative output.

File

Map Reading Game – Pin the Place (Xplorer Squad)

1.85 MB

PDF

Guided Activity – Reading Historical Maps of Bangkok

1.08 MB

PDF

Photograph Reading Game – Mystery Images (Xplorer Squad)

0.69 MB

PDF

Photograph Reading Guidelines (Xplorer Squad)

1.74 MB

PDF

Photograph Reading Worksheet (Xplorer Squad)

0.05 MB

PDF

Example Images for Photograph Reading (Xplorer Squad)

50.34 MB

PDF

Xplorer Squad – Heritage Trail Map

31.93 MB

PDF

Assessment Rubric (0–3) – Xplorer Squad

0.27 MB

PDF

Relation

Replica of the Royal Clock Tower

Replica of the Royal Clock Tower on Sanam Chai Road, built in 1982 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Rattanakosin. It honours the original clock tower once located in the Grand Palace, a 19th century landmark of modernisation during the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV).
Memorial Bridge (Phra Phuttha Yodfa Bridge)

The Memorial Bridge (Phra Phuttha Yodfa Bridge), commonly known as Saphan Phut, was the first bascule steel bridge in Bangkok. Opened in 1932 during the reign of King Prajadhipok (King Rama VII) to mark the 150th anniversary of Rattanakosin, it links the historic Phra Nakhon district on the east bank with Thonburi on the west bank. Beyond its function as a river crossing, the bridge symbolises the expansion of Bangkok across the Chao Phraya and the embrace of modern engineering that transformed the capital into a modern city in the early 20th century.
Saranrom Park

Originally a royal private garden, Saranrom Park evolved over time into a botanical garden, a zoo, and a venue for social and political activities. It reflects Siam’s transition from a traditional kingdom into a more open and modern Thai society.
Suankularb Wittayalai School

Suankularb Wittayalai School, founded during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V), was the first royal school in Thailand. It was established as part of the King’s vision to modernise the country through education, ensuring that young people, nobles, officials, and citizens gained the knowledge and discipline needed to serve the nation in a changing world.
Rajini School

Rajini School, founded in 1904 by Queen Saovabha Phongsri, was one of the first schools in Thailand to provide formal education for girls. Established to give Thai women the opportunity to learn, develop skills and build good character, it has played a leading role in shaping education for women in modern Thailand.
Poh-Chang Academy of Arts

Poh-Chang Academy of Arts was founded in 1913 during the reign of King Vajiravudh (King Rama VI), building upon the foundations laid earlier by the “Wood Carving Division” and the “Craftsmen’s Guild” established under King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V). Conceived as a means to preserve traditional Thai craftsmanship while embracing modern knowledge, the school played a pivotal role in shaping modern Thai art. It brought together Thai artisans and pioneering foreign instructors such as Frederick Samuel Harrop, who introduced Western artistic techniques, and Prince Chudadhut Dharadilok, the first commandant who established its formal curriculum and structure. Today, Poh-Chang is part of Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin and remains a symbol of artistic training where Thai cultural heritage and international approaches continue to converge.
Wat Liab Power Plant

The Siam Electricity Company was founded in 1898, with its power plant located on the grounds of Wat Ratchaburana Ratchaworawihan (commonly known as Wat Liab). This steam-powered plant burned wood, coal, oil and rice husks as fuel and became known as the “Wat Liab Power Plant.” It brought electric light to the Phra Nakhon and Thonburi areas, providing power for streets, royal palaces, and key public buildings.
Tha Tien Market

Tha Tien Market, nestled opposite Wat Pho and close to the Grand Palace, has long been one of Bangkok’s oldest riverfront trading hubs. It began as a busy dockside market in the Ayutthaya, Thonburi, and early Rattanakosin periods. In the 20th century, it changed into a planned market with European-style shophouses. Later, the area changed again. The market moved away from wholesale trade and became a place for culture and tourism instead.
Charoen Krung Road

Charoen Krung was Bangkok’s first modern road, constructed between 1861–1864 during the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV). Designed by Henry Alabaster, it stretched over 8.5 km along the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River, marking a shift from canal-based to road-based urban development.
Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre

Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre is a historic theatre on Charoen Krung Road in Bangkok. It was built to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the city during the reign of King Prajadhipok (Rama VII). It was the first cinema in Thailand with air conditioning and a modern design. Today, it is still in use as a venue for classical dance, theatre, and special film events.
Phra Ratchawang Metropolitan Police Station

Western-style policing began in Siam during King Rama IV’s reign, known at the time as pontrawen (patrol officers). The Phra Ratchawang Metropolitan Police Station, originally located near Tha Tian Market, was later relocated to its current site. The building was designed by Italian architect Mario Tamagno, who also designed the Ministry of Commerce building behind it. In fact, the police station was completed around seven years before the Ministry building.
Bangkok Trams

The Bangkok tram system operated from 1888 to 1968, making Thailand the second country in the region to adopt trams for public transport. Initially horse-drawn, it was later electrified, transforming the city’s mobility and urban landscape.
Xplorer Squads: Unlock the Past – Map Set

A set of three reproduced maps reframing the southern part of the Rattanakosin historic area. These maps are tools, not evidence, used in the Xplorer Squads lesson plan to help students explore and understand changes in Bangkok over time.
Museum Siam (Former Ministry of Commerce Building)

Museum Siam, housed in the former Ministry of Commerce building, is a striking example of early 20th-century Western classical architecture in Bangkok. Originally completed in 1922, the building reflects the modernisation of Siam through both its design and its role in international trade administration.
The Old Siam Plaza (formerly Ming Muang Market)

Ming Muang Market, designed by Italian architect Mario Tamagno and opened in 1932, was a modern textile market in late King Vajiravudh’s reign. Inspired by Middle Eastern-style clothing bazaars, it served as a hub for fast, quality tailoring in Bangkok. Today, the site has transformed into “The Old Siam Plaza,” blending nostalgic atmosphere with modern commerce.
Xplorer Squad: Tracing Bangkok’s Historic Quarter with Phratumnuk Suankularb School

Phratumnuk Suankularb School students joined a two-day Xplorer Squad workshop at Museum Siam and Rattanakosin Island. On Day One, they attended a lecture on urbanisation—from traditional Thai settlements to modern city growth—equipping them with analytical tools for reading maps, photographs, architecture and infrastructure. Afterward, teams decoded period maps and completed a “Photo Detective” exercise, then prepared research insights and questions for their upcoming field visit. On Day Two, students explored the streets to compare archival evidence with the contemporary cityscape before crafting and sharing their own “learning trails.” Post-workshop surveys show that over 80 % of participants discovered a new excitement for history, and two-thirds expressed a desire to explore Bangkok’s heritage on their own.
Thammasat Secondary School City Quest: Unearthing Bangkok’s Stories

Thammasat Secondary School students embarked on a dynamic two-day City Quest at Museum Siam and Rattanakosin Island, combining expert lecture, comparative map analysis and “Photo Detective” exercises to decode Bangkok’s urban evolution. In small teams assigned two historic sites each, they honed observational skills—reading archival images, tracing canal routes and street patterns—before bringing their research into the field to compare past and present. Through guided reflection and creative “learning trails,” participants emerged with deeper, embodied insights into the city’s stories, reporting a significant boost in both historical understanding and independent curiosity.
Reading the City, Reading the Past: Museum Links with Suankularb Wittayalai’s UNESCO Club

An immersive two-day programme where Suankularb Wittayalai’s UNESCO Club members decoded Bangkok’s “Siam Mai” era through expert lecture, map-and-photo analysis, and on-site investigations. Day One featured a detailed lecture on 19th–early 20th-century reforms, followed by team assignments to study two historic sites via triangulation of 1887, 1932 and contemporary maps alongside archival images. On Day Two, teams surveyed eight key locations across Rattanakosin Island, then synthesised their findings into dynamic posters. The workshop fostered critical questioning, collaborative storytelling and a tangible appreciation of how Bangkok’s places and streets encode its past.
Exploring the Old City: Xplorer Squad – Unlock the Past with Suksanaree School

A two-day workshop that combined museum-based lectures, map analysis and field exploration, guiding Suksanaree School students through Rattanakosin Island’s layered history. On Day One, participants decoded three chronological maps and practised photo-reading techniques to uncover clues about each site’s evolution. Day Two took them on a curated walking trail—visiting the Sanam Chai MRT archaeological display, Sala Chalermkrung Theatre and other landmarks—where they compared archival evidence with present-day observations. Creative poster presentations and reflective discussions demonstrated enhanced critical thinking, teamwork and a deeper, embodied understanding of Bangkok’s transformation.

Lesson Plans