The Internet has changed the way students access historical facts. What was once taught in a textbook is now easily accessible online. Instead of the previous need for rote memorization, our fourth grade teachers have designed a way for each student to not only learn about a historical time period but also interact with that period through the lens of a person who lived it.
Our fourth grade students start with choosing historical fiction and forming a book group. They then research the period featured in their text (e.g. World War II, 1900's) and create a vision board to teach others about the setting of their book. They conclude the project by giving presentations in which they teach parents, peers, and younger students about the book and that historical period.
The result of this project is that our students do not just memorize a date in history, but instead place themselves in a different time period by slipping into the main character's shoes. This allows them to develop a deeper understanding and compassion for what life was truly like at that time.
