At the end of the simulation, students compare their numbers of survivors, houses, and acres of crops to those of the original Pilgrims. The Independence simulation requires students to recreate the moods of the First and Second Continental Congresses, and in the process, use persuasion to garner support for their various political positions. During the Civil War simulation students reenact the activity of a field hospital and study different battles. In addition, students journalize their experiences and complete research projects. The final simulation for the year is the Immigration simulation in which students become immigrants being processed through Ellis Island.
Students experience the confusion, fear, and hope of coming to a new country.
Through all of the simulations students face the real-world problems of the times, allowing them to feel and experience history rather than just read about it. The high levels of student engagement and responsibility have minimized classroom discipline problems. The Reagan Fifth-Grade Team has found the way to teach for understanding by giving students meaningful and lasting experiences.