Relating modern day schools, which students know well, to schools as they existed in the same communities centuries ago makes the learning relevant to students. By comparing schools of the 18th and 19th centuries to those that students currently attend, students learn about changes that have occured over the years. Students may access information through referenced books, local historical societies, films, and web sites. Students may use this research to simulate as closely as possible the conditions in schools of earlier times and the day to day school schedules and routines of the students who attended them. Students ad to the chart as they particpate in activities.
Students use diverse resources for their research including texts, documentary film, and web sites.
Students share their new information with other students in the class by using a variety of formats including making Venn diagrams, engaging in persuasive writing, recreating some aspect of the old school house. Students publish their information including drawings, photos, and writings via CommunityNet. Time required varies depending on the age and ability of students and the scope of the project. For ESL Students To translate web materials for students who need concepts and background information in their first language see Altavista's Babelfish. Although at times the translations are too literal, the site provides second language students with comprehensible material.