Living History

by Sarah Janus

Last summer Living History was created as an interdisciplinary early American history cirriculum. The purpose of this project was to improve the social studies cirriculum by including elements of dance and drama. By integrating the arts into the curriculum, students were actively participating in their education allowing for a better understanding of their personal role in history. These lessons, intended for fifth graders int he state of Delaware, are based on state and national standards in all three learning areas. Throughout the year, four lesson plans were taught at a local elementary school. Sarah used pre and post tests as assesment tools. They offered direct proof of improvment following the lessons. The data showed that overall, the students improved in ther knowledge and skills.