Smell memories and meanings

• Smell only things you know are safe. Never smell unknown substances, chemicals, gas, smoke from fires or anything that could be harmful, and waft gently instead of inhaling hard. If you have a smell-related health concern, ask a medical professional.
• Check for allergies and sensitivities before any smelling activity, and let any pupil sit out.
• Use closed cups and waft; never ask pupils to sniff strongly or to smell cleaning products, fuels, chemicals or anything unknown.

• Paper and pencils

1. Read the lesson on shared smells and different meanings.
2. Each pupil writes one smell they associate with a place or moment; sharing is optional.
3. In small groups, compare how a single smell can feel different to different people.
4. Discuss how SmellBook separates cultural associations from scientific findings.

Classroom guides are free, like all of SmellBook Learn. They are suggestions for teachers, not a curriculum standard, and they are not tied to any school, programme or partner.