There
appears to be a particular emphasis throughout this project on the experiences
of the immigrants, including that of children (A Boy's Journey), perhaps suggesting
that the 5th graders will be able to relate to them better and find it easier
to learn about their experiences. There is also a focus on actually speaking to
someone who went through the "difficult and dangerous" journey to
America and learning about their first hand experience; during the project the
children are prepared to interview "someone who was born in another country and moved to America"
implying this will help their understanding. Most interestingly however, the
vocabulary task which is the very first part of the project includes words with
both positive and negative connotations. For example, the words which they are
required to research and write a brief definition of, vary from 'America' and
'journey' to 'deformity', 'disease', 'baggage' and 'inspection'; all of which
evoke feelings of uneasiness and even fear.
Despite this, it appears that overall the children learning about
immigration through this web project would find it difficult to form their own
opinions and ideas on the subject; particularly as they learn very little of
what happens to them after Ellis Island which is a huge focus throughout. Only
the interview with someone who had experienced immigration and perhaps hints
from the vocabulary task suggest any negativity surrounded immigration.
Overall, it is clearly hoped that the children come to understand "why the
United States is called the nation of all nations."
A good post - interesting comment on the following through after leaving Ellis Island too
ReplyDelete