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Title of lesson:
Ellis Island Integration
Department/Team: Ninth
grade team led by Social Studies Dept.
Grade level(s):
9
Educators in charge:
John Smola, Scott Fischer, Jeff Clifford
General goals:
1. To provide an experience during which students role play an imaginary
immigrant and become involved in a day-long simulation of Ellis Island
2. To study the immigration experience in the United States from 1880 to
1950 approximately
3. To establish activities in which students work individually and
collaboratively to understand and appreciate the ethnicity that defines
the United States
Process:
1.
Prior to the end of the present school year, appoint an integration leader
or small committee of staff members to discuss the previous integration’s
successes and challenges. Also, set a mutual timeline for all aspects of
the integration including the date for the simulation day.
2.
Develop all schedules, handouts, volunteer contacts, and other vital
information pieces including those to be posted on the school website.
3.
Promote Ellis Island as a highlight of the ninth grade year in September.
Refer to it often so students ‘buy into’ the integration.
4.
Contact parents and community members as early as possible. Provide them
with lists of the various ways they can participate. Compose a master
list as feedback is received.
5.
Have a visa produced for each student. This visa becomes their
documentation or proof of their work and preparation related to this
integration.
6.
Notify staff members of their assignments, noting any re-locations.
7.
Confirm assignments and schedules with parent, community, and staff
volunteers.
8.
Notify students of their ‘ship’ assignments several days before the
simulation. Contact the media also.
9.
Review resources available to create the atmosphere of Ellis Island such
as murals, red-white-and blue buntings, and flags.
10. Set up all materials, rooms, bulletins, and notices the evening
before the simulation day.
11.
Greet parents and other volunteers the
morning of the simulation. Provide refreshments as well as guideline
sheets detailing their responsibilities for the day.
12. Coordinate all ‘officials’ to provide the proper announcements during
the morning session. Have the announcements given in several languages.
13. Compile digital images into a Power Point presentation for viewing
at the swearing in ceremony at the conclusion of the simulation
Auxiliary Documents:
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