The Past and the Future

Before embarking on their study of ancient civilizations, Mrs. Mary Conroy’s 6th grade students were asked to answer two questions:  Why do we need to study history, and how can we make it interesting to children? 

 Working in collaborative groups, and using their imaginations, the students created innovative ideas to bring history alive.  Two groups created newscasts to teach history, using different elements of a news show, even sports and weather!  One group created a variety show with singing and dancing and another planned a show in which every episode would go back into history and explore a different topic or person.  A final group created a whole channel, with each show dedicated to a different time in history.  The students used props, theme songs and costumes to add authenticity as they presented their final “trailers” to the class.  The students learned that history is important because people can learn from their mistakes and successes. 

The 8th grade class recently had an opportunity to learn more about themselves by participating in Union Catholic High School’s Day of Recollection which is designed to encourage spiritual growth and reflection.  The students spent the day working on a few themes including making good decisions, making friends, self-acceptance, and deepening their faith.  They sat in groups and listened to a Union Catholic student give their perspective on each topic, then on activities related to the topic, including drawing what they wanted in a friend.  Using drawings such as arms for hugging and a heart symbolizing love, they shared their thoughts with their group and the whole class.   Eighth grade is a year of excitement for the future and this Day of Recollection gave the students some time to reflect on those themes.