Inter-Lakes eighth graders walk Freedom Trail, dissect Declaration of Independence for America250

MEREDITH — A project 250 years in the making, Inter-Lakes Middle High School's eighth grade spent the year exploring and celebrating the nation’s history.

Part of the annual curriculum, the fall kicks off with a class trip to Boston, where students walk the Freedom Trail — a brick-lined path connecting some of the most significant sites of the American Revolution. As they visited historic landmarks and monuments, students experienced firsthand the stories that shaped the founding of the United States.

This year, the students read, dissected and discussed the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Most recently, students were challenged to investigate influential figures and pivotal American battles that shaped the nation.

As part of the project, students selected a historically important person or battle of their choice and researched information using both primary and secondary sources. Students created and answered research questions designed to deepen their understanding of why their topic mattered during the American Revolution and how its impact can still be seen today.

With a goal of engaging students in history and applying their research, students worked toward learning objectives such as analyzing why people or groups are historically important, making connections between events across time periods, and summarizing information. Presenting their findings to classmates, students had an opportunity to practice public speaking skills.

“I was so proud of the students for presenting and enjoyed seeing their creativity,” Wendy Taylor, ILMHS grade eight social studies teacher, said.

To showcase their learning, students designed detailed models and thoughtfully designed displays, these final products demonstrated both historical understanding and their own individuality. This year-long adventure and study of our nation’s history was organized and led by ILMHS social studies teachers Cristina LaRue and Taylor.