Students concluded the first part of a study on U.S. immigration today by presenting their work in informative and creative ways. This historical focus began with the story of Ellis Island. A documentary, discussions, background readings, and poetry writing introduced the complex history of that famous landmark.
The students learned about the factors that have "pushed" people from their home countries and "pulled" them to American shores. These push and pull factors were brought to life when students stepped into the shoes of actual immigrants that made the dangerous and uncertain journey to the United States at the turn of the 20th century.
Using online records from Ellis Island, students chose an immigrant to impersonate, researched their country of origin, and theorized as to why they chose to leave their homeland and emigrate to America.
A simulation of the Ellis Island experience ensued in Garden Lane, where all the guides assisted in the simulation as students went through a series of examinations and questioning.
Mrs. Mast played the role of the fast but thorough medical examiner. Mrs. Ladd transformed into a stern and resolute legal inspector that asked a series of tough questions to each "immigrant" about their personal background and their intent for coming into the country.
Mrs. Fagan then administered the written naturalization test to determine if these new arrivals were familiar with basic characteristics of our country's history and character.
Simulating the immigrant experience of Ellis Island turned out to be a fun and exciting way of developing a greater understanding of the power behind an individual's drive to pursue a life of liberty and happiness--a life where they can be free to flourish as individuals in safe and civil communities.
Today's presentations beautifully reflected their developing knowledge of the human story as it relates to the movement of diverse peoples into our country.
After sharing recent poems written about the Ellis Island experience, they set out to share knowledge on the immigration history of a specific ethnic group that they had individually researched.
These presentations were accompanied by creative approaches to sharing something related to that ethnic group's experience or what they contributed to American culture.
Singing, acting, and art were among the exciting offerings from the students.
Some chose to make food based on their immigrant group, which was shared among all the students. It was a presentation session made for the senses!
Students now begin their scientific exploration of cells and genetics and will then return to studies of immigration by planning and taking a trip to New York City. We'll soon be standing on the shores of the actual Ellis Island, gazing out at the Statue of Liberty and thinking of all it stands for!
To realize the American dream, the most important thing to understand is that it belongs to everybody. It's a human dream. If you understand this and work very hard, it is possible. -Cristina Saralegui