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Faces of Freedom Calendar

School: World of Inquiry High School

City/State: Rochester, NY

Grade(s): 3

Format(s): Calendar

Subject(s): English Language Arts, Social Studies

Project Overview

This calendar celebrating new Americans was created by 3rd graders from the World of Inquiry School 58 in Rochester, New York, as part of a learning expedition on immigration.

As a way to honor the experiences of young immigrants and to learn about immigration, students from this class interviewed young people from the local community who had immigrated to the area. The students’ writing captures the range of reasons why people immigrate to the United States, including escaping from war and poverty, and their hopes for a better life.

Each page uses a common format and includes the map and flag of the country that the immigrant was from, a digital photograph taken by the interviewee, an overview and description of the country, and a list of memories from the person who was interviewed.

How This Project Can Be Useful

  • Unlike many other interview projects, this one highlights young people interviewing other young people
  • Connects students to world geography through real and engaging content – real people who have immigrated for a variety of reasons to the United States
  • The format of “memories” is a simple but evocative means for capturing the experiences of these immigrants
  • A format that encourages a wide range of information that is distilled into one page
  • Encourages the study of immigration and geography for a real purpose: appreciating fellow citizens
  • A thoughtful way to celebrate new Americans

Common Core State Standards

Standard Long Term Learning Target
W.3.4
  • With support from adults, I can produce writing that is appropriate to task and purpose.
W.3.8
  • I can sort evidence into provided categories.
L.3.6
  • I can accurately use 3rd grade academic vocabulary to express my ideas.
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