Our Lady of Lourdes Middle School students participate in History Fair, reenact historical figures

Friday, May. 23, 2014

SALT LAKE CITY — History came alive May 1 for middle school students at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School during the biannual History Fair, which gives students an opportunity to research not only biographical information about an historic figure, but also the impact of this figure’s legacy on the world and its cultures. 

Students were able to choose an historical figure who interested them, and then delve into the research and writing processes to compose comprehensive biographical research papers.  Beyond the writing and research, students participated in a variety of activities that promoted drama technique, which encouraged the students to embody their characters.

“The process seems daunting at first, but students quickly find a passion for research, history and drama as their projects develop,” seventh-grade teacher and History Fair coach Karen Streeter said. 

“Having to become the character made me learn acting skills and made me infer how my character would act, react and respond in different situations,” said seventh-grader Boston Ravarino, who chose to study the 34th president of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower.

On the evening of the History Fair, students created a set, costumes and props to enhance their presentations. The students presented in character all around the school grounds to a wide audience of parents, younger students, neighborhood locals and several judges.

“Because students are required to create artifacts that seem authentic to their character, critical thinking is so evident throughout this project.  The students put learning into action,” Streeter said. 

Seventh-grader Riley Walker labored to perfect his project and presentation on the first African-American Major League Baseball player Jackie Robinson.  

“It was really hard to stay in character,” Walker said.  “It was tough to talk to my family without breaking character!”

The wonder of discovery could also be found in students like eighth-grader Whitlee Neeley, who said excitedly, “I learned that history’s fun!”

Eighth-grader Olivia Sandoval, who portrayed Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA, commented, “History Fair changed the way I looked at writing and research. It can be fun.”

“What I find extraordinary about the program is the growth shown from that questioning state in February of not knowing what their project will be, to feeling like an expert by the beginning of May,” Streeter said. “You can’t take that away from them.”