Project Overview

The othering expedition focuses on the treatment of people we see different from ourselves. Students explored this topic through readings, discussions, fieldwork, guest experts, and in the creation of artistic works. By studying the Internment of Japanese Americans during WW II the students were given a window and a mirror that allowed them to reflect on on this topic both historically and personally.

In addition to creating the "I Can Help" PSA, the students used historical primary sources to create blackout and found poems that addressed the topics of fear and forgiveness. Each student also created a fabric art piece that reflected a tradition or history that was significant to them, which allowed them to explore their existence in the dominate culture. Through collaborative research, the students created a timeline of the Japanese-American internment experience, which also included a historically researched letter.

To see another product from this expedition from 8th grade students at the same school please click here.