In an exciting and innovative approach to learning, third-grade students at Buckley
Country Day School have embarked on a captivating journey into the past.
The young scholars have been diligently researching historical figures as part of a unique project that combines history, narrative nonfiction, and creativity.
Students selected a historical figure, conducted in-depth research, and then brought
their chosen personality to life through engaging presentations.
What sets this initiative apart is the culminating event where students donned costumes representing their chosen figures and presented their findings to their peers, teachers, and parents.
“The goal of this project is to make reading come alive for our third graders,” said
Kathryn Downing, one of Buckley’s third grade teachers. This project was a culmination
and celebration of a Narrative Nonfiction unit. Throughout the students’ study of
Narrative Nonfiction, third graders were given the opportunity to learn about various
historical figures, both past and present. They took a close look at early life, challenges,
and accomplishments of these historical figures, and even thought about life lessons the
class could learn from them. Mrs. Downing continued, “by embodying historical figures,
third graders not only gain a deeper understanding of the individuals who helped to
shape our world, but also develop essential research and presentation skills.”
Indeed, these historical figures did seem to come to life on the screen, as the students
used AI tools with their teachers to have conversations with the subjects of their
research about what their lives were like, and how they were able to achieve their many
accomplishments.
“This certainly enhanced the students’ learning experiences and provided an additional
element of excitement to their biography study. The integration of AI tools in education
offers a promising horizon filled with opportunities.” said Elizabeth Lyons, Head of
Lower School at Buckley.
The students have been exploring a diverse range of historical figures, from inventors
and scientists like Albert Einstein and Charles Darwin, to leaders like President Barack
Obama and Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, activists like Malala Yousafzai and Greta
Thunberg, and athletes like Simone Biles and Derek Jeter.
The project not only aligns with the curriculum’s learning objectives but also encourages creativity and public speaking skills among the students; skills that are fostered throughout the grades, culminating in an 8th grade speech presented to the entire community during Friday assemblies.
This event was an enlightening and entertaining showcase of the students’ hard work
and dedication to learning about the past. Congratulations, Buckley third graders!
