Exploring the Way to Freedom

SPRING, 2005-2006

Fifth grade's final expedition focused on a rich period in American History: the exploration and colonization of North America, and the subsequent fight for independence from Britain.

Students began the expedition working in crews to learn and teach each other about early world explorers. Then, they researched and examined the similarities and differences between the origins, economics, and cultures of the thirteen original colonies.

Each student received an artifact representing a significant place, person, or event in the 1700's, for example a quill pen and bottle of ink belonging to a mysterious "J.H.," a handkerchief embroidered with the initials "D.S.," or a box of tea from 1773. During the remainder of the expedition, researched the artifact to try to determine its place in the story of the American Revolution.

Students traveled to Boston for a four-day field study to learn how events in that city helped lead to the formation of a new country. They were constantly on the lookout for bits of information that might provide clues to their artifact's - or its owner's - role in the fight for independence.

Students created still life paintings that incorporated their artifact along with other related objects. They also develop an Antiques Roadshow production which described the importance and value of each artifact and presented short vignettes of artifacts being used by historically significant characters.