What is this Project About? The Official Bits:

Scope of the Project:  I will research, then create an informational booklet of no more than 20 pages to help teachers of all subjects use first person historical interpretation in their classrooms.  I will share the content of this ‘how-to’ guide at MEA-MFT (2014) in a draft outline form, ask for volunteers to pilot the suggestions, and then present the final product at the conference the following year (2015).  Common Core doesn’t have to be a common bore!

            Why no more than 20 pages?  Because teachers are busy!  This needs to be something easy to read and refer back to--there are several books already available if you want to go crazy on this topic.

Background:  Through the process of developing my timeline costumes and field project, ‘The Year Long Dress’(yearlongdress.blogspot.com), I have realized that my efforts are only reaching my own students, with little impact beyond my classroom walls.  I want to share ideas on how to implement first and third person interpretation as a pedagogical tool and engagement motivator.  I have yet to see any resources and/or suggestions for anyone outside the realm of history or social studies, and most authorities on the subject are focused on professional presentations that are beyond what is practical for a classroom teacher to use on a frequent basis. 

            I am still developing the timeline project, including the constant expansion of my costume and historic figure collection.  Additionally, I will continue working on a blog (timelinecostumes.blogspot.com) that my students and other interested persons can interact with (currently only partway finished as I create a post for each character I represent in class).   

Welcome Volunteers! Basic Parameters:

Thank you so much for your interest in this project!

1.  You have been invited to create and deliver a lesson (or more if you would like) teaching as a specific person (living or dead) from history.  There are several options and potential ideas on how to do this.  You do not have to submit any kind of formal lesson plan, although if you have one, I would love to get a copy!

Here is an example inter-disciplinary lesson:  Rachel Carson explains Environmental Interconnectedness.  http://broadwater.helenaschools.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2015/08/Food-Chain-Rachel-Carson.pdf

2.  You will commit to completing a short survey about your lesson.

3.  Optional (Especially if you have older students and are willing to take the time for additional feedback):  I would like to get feedback from students about their perceptions and experiences during your lesson(s).  I do not have a formal survey form for student feedback as I am looking for more anecdotal responses.  Younger student responses are also welcome!  There is a place on the survey form for teachers to share student comments.

4.  Optional:  I would love some pictures!  Please follow image-release requirements and send me only pictures you would allow me to share/reproduce.