Monday, June 26, 2023
Hi-cap students selected significant historical figures (like Native American explorer Sacagawea pictured here) to present in a wax museum
Elementary students in Woodland’s highly capable (Hi-Cap) program recently wowed their peers, parents, and teachers in a new wax museum project where third and fourth graders selected historical figures to research and then act as if they were in an animated wax museum.
The project aimed to enhance public speaking, presentation, and research skills while immersing the students in the lives of historical figures. “The Hi-Cap program specifically focuses on helping students develop the skills addressed in this project,” explained Shae Lindsay, librarian for Woodland’s elementary schools and teacher for the highly capable program. “Students used their research skills to learn about a person of interest and had to take that research to develop both a presentation and write a short speech; this comprehensive project effectively encompassed the key areas of emphasis in the Hi-Cap program.”
Students dressed up and acted like their selected historical figure, answering questions about their lives to visitors
Students could select any famous person from history with just a few caveats. “Although students were given the freedom to choose any famous person they desired, they were encouraged to select individuals who had made positive contributions to our world,” said Lindsay. “This criterion ensured that the project not only fostered knowledge acquisition but also promoted the celebration of remarkable figures who have influenced society for the better.”
Classmates as well as families were invited to attend so the students could develop their public speaking skills
The school’s third and fourth grade classes, as well as parents, visited the wax museum to learn from the students’ presentations. “Inviting classmates and parents to attend allowed the presenting students to showcase their hard work and demonstrate their newly acquired knowledge to an appreciative audience,” said Lindsay. The event was a resounding success, with students transforming into living representations of historical figures such as scientists, artists, athletes, and influential leaders. The interactive nature of the museum allowed visitors to engage with the "wax figures" and learn about their lives and contributions firsthand.
The project allowed students to challenge themselves and develop a variety of skillsets
Working as the district’s elementary librarian, Lindsay stepped up to take on the Hi-Cap program as she felt her unique position offered her opportunities to challenge students to excel. “I felt I could support the program with a lot of the skills and resources connected to our libraries,” she said.
For Lindsay, her desire to become a teacher and help reach struggling students stems from experiences with her own siblings growing up. “I watched my younger siblings struggle with school and I wanted to be a teacher who could reach those struggling students,” she said. “My favorite part about teaching is the relationships and connections I build with students.”
Learn more about Woodland’s Highly Capable Program:
The Highly Capable Program offers students excelling in their studies to receive additional challenges to stretch their learning. “Our paramount goal as a district is always to meet the needs of all students, and Highly Capable students are no exception,” explained Lindsay. “Our classroom teachers work to challenge these students on a daily basis in the classroom and the Hi-Cap program provides additional opportunities for these students to excel and push themselves.”
Highly Capable students, like any other students, require tailored challenges to ensure their continuous growth. While classroom teachers already strive to provide a stimulating learning environment, the Hi-Cap program serves as a valuable supplement, offering additional opportunities for students to excel and push their boundaries.