It is with mixed emotions as I write this post about this year's Heritage Fair. On one hand, I am just glad it is over, as it has become an all-encompassing blob that has devoured virtually every part of Social Studies and Daily 5 since the winter break. That said, I am always so proud of the work that my students have done that I can hardly wait to get started on next year's project!
I am always amazed by the variety of projects my students select for their research! This year, my students chose to research some classic topics like Tommy Douglas and the Halifax Explosion, but also many less obvious topics such as residential schools and the role of the general store in early Prairie communities. The level of research was so impressive this year, and it was evident from Day One that they had done this type of research in Grades 3 and 4. Some of my students were motivated enough to conduct interviews that would enhance their research, and we were fortunate to have some amazing and generous people like Hayley Wickenheiser and Private Craig Hicks.
The fair itself went off without a hitch, which in itself is a considerable achievement, considering that there were 170 displays and over 200 students involved. Our students were extremely well-prepared for their time with the judges, and many of our students were recognized with awards or were selected to advance to the Regional Heritage Fair in May!
Projects like these remind me of the power of true inquiry. For far too long, the focus for our students has been on finding the correct answers, but this leaves little opportunity to get a clear picture of any student's level of understanding. When a student engages in inquiry projects like the Heritage Fair, they learn that the true learning happens when they learn to ask the right questions. Though this can be a challenge for some students, the sense of confidence and empowerment it gives each one is undeniable.
