A “Revolutionary” experience
Ryukyu Middle School students research Revolutionary War
OKINAWA – Seventh grade students at Ryukyu Middle School recently took on the iconic roles of notable figures from the Revolutionary War.
Ms. Abigail Murray's 7th grade U.S. History students embarked on an exciting project where they researched various revolutionary figures, using databases in MackinVia at the library information center. Each student began by choosing a person of historical significance or interest. After completing the research, students created an outline of their individual's involvement during the Revolutionary War period. The culminating products of the learning included a final paper and presentation.
The twist?
They had to keep their chosen individuals a secret until presentation day, when the library information center was transformed into a colonial tea party. On that day, students sipped tea and ate biscuits donated by parents while discussing historical issues such as their characters' feelings about the Stamp Act and the events of the Boston Tea Party. Each student mingled in character, learning about the perspectives of both Patriots and Loyalists. Finally, each student presented their character, and classmates had to guess their loyalty and identity.
“As a social studies teacher at Seoul American Middle School, I first learned about this project from my colleague Ms. Kimelman, who originally implemented it while teaching in Germany,” said Ms. Andrea Petz, the Informational Specialist at Ryukyu Middle School. “It has evolved into a truly collaborative effort. Now, as an information specialist, I have the opportunity to share and collaborate with new colleagues, each bringing fresh ideas. This project has left a lasting impact with former students who still reach out to me and recall this project with fondness.”
Through collaboration, Ms. Murray and Ms. Petz provided an interactive opportunity for students to learn research skills and engage in academic discourse.
