27 | T h u rsd a y, F e b ru a ry 1 6 , 2 0 1 7 | Students go back in time to step into other shoes by Nathan Howes O akville Beaver S ta ff Students at WH. Morden Public School travelled back in time Feb. 9 as they explored some of Canada' s most influential figures and groups. The local elementary school staged an Interactive Museum to give students the opportunity to look back on Canadian and international individuals and groups, and their global impact, from the 1890s through 1914. Four Grade 8 classes were involved. The students presented First Nations' groups and their perspectives as well as Canadian figures and famous people, who had a national and global impact. After several weeks of research, students created a one-minute speech, as though delivered from their subject. They also generated a significant event timeline and map associated with their subject, said Grade 8 teacher Shauna Peddle. "They took on the perspective of that individual," said Peddle. "When you walk around, you will be able to meet different Canadians from 1890-1914 and hear their experiences." Peddle said the project allowed the approximate 100 students involved, to get up close with their figure or group, providing more involvement and interaction with history. "When they're actually allowed to take on the role of that individual, step into their shoes and see the impact these individuals had, it allows them to see some of the experiences and things these people overcame," said Peddle. "It allows them to relate to history a lot more." The Grade 8 teacher hopes the students will continue to develop a greater appreciation and passion for history and those who helped shape it, she said. "Going off to high school next year... it will encourage FREDEfW -M ill Grade 8 classes at W.H. Morden Public School studied historical figures of the time period 1890-1914, then created exhibits for an interactive museum in the school. Muhadisa Ali portrayed Frederick Middleton, Com mander of the Canadian Militia (1825-1898). | Graham Paine/Metroland them to continue to study history and show them how much fun it can be to uncover the hidden messages and hidden storylines they may not know about," said Peddle. The museum, which has been an ongoing project for several years, is an interactive "way for them to share their learning, not just a typical presentation," Peddle said. "Our students do a really great job at sharing their understanding in creative ways. This was just another way for them to show it without just standing up and doing a slideshow," said Peddle. Some of the notable figures researched included Sir John A. Macdonald, Wilfrid Laurier and the Famous Five women, among others. "It' s an interesting way to share their findings and share their research," said Peddle. Two youths who participated in the school' s Interactive Museum were Jack Latham, 13, and Abbie Robinson, 13. Latham researched Songhees Chief Michael Cooper - "someone who stood up for what he believed in" -- wanting children in residential schools and their families to see each other, she said. "He fought for what he wanted and felt it was right," said Latham. It' s important to learn about figures such as Cooper because it helps us understand the past better and get an idea of what First Nations' tribes went through, the 13-year-old said. "They were forced to practise other religions at these schools. They were forced out of their own communities," said Latham. "We should know about this because we can learn from it and know how they feel." Robinson, who researched residential schools and the resistance families faced, said it taught her to appreciate her own situation more. "If I was them in that place, four years old and not being with my family. it' s a big change for them. Don' t take family for granted because at anytime it could go away," said Robinson. "It' s important to research and remember what other kids had to go through." OAKVILLE BEAVER | w w w .in s id e H A L T O N .c o m 905-845-0701 scott@gasfix.ca Call for free in house quote END OF SEASON SALE Special pricing on all gas models · Contemporary and traditional designs See our reviews gasfixrepair.homestars.com baler's upholstery & design MARTINSONS VAN HOUTTE, OVER 200 FLAVOURS TIMOTHY'S, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST ...AND MORE! KOFFEE KORNER OAKVILLE MIX AND MATCH |OVER 500 FLAVOURS WWW.KOFFEEKORNEROAKVILLE.COM CASES OF 24 $ 13.9 9 ! w w w .b a ie r s .c a · 1000's of Designer fabrics to choose m /v& u.bi Years in business 240 NORTH SERVICE RD W O A KV ILLE, ONT L6M2G2 NO RTH S ER VIC E ROAD W CALL US FOR AN APPOINTMENT Sofas · Chairs · Headboards · Throw Pillows · Drapery & Hardware 11-2345 Wyecroft Road, Oakville · 905.616.3156 · info@baiers.ca f DORVAL CROSSING E (WINNERS P L A Z A ) O l/ '/ lW / li