Our recent 4/5 Colonial Unit was showcased with the Colonial Day (Living History Day) last Friday, May 24. The weather held, just barely, as our Redtails and Coopers inhabited the authentic roles of Colonial tradespersons (such as a schoolmaster, limner, wheelwright, blacksmith, or cooper -- the barrel/urn maker, not the hawk) that they had studied.

For several weeks, students researched their trades in the Library and Computer Lab, doing additional work in the classroom and at home, preparing for an exciting exposition at the Hawks Nest in which students stationed themselves and literally 'set up shop' -- in costume and in character -- around the buildings and in clearings in the surrounding woods. Students and teachers from other grades came through to learn about the trades and life in Colonial times, as did parents, administrators and other friends. 

The students enjoyed their demonstrations of learning, as did the audience that cycled through that morning, and I was one! The depth of their research allowed for inspired discovery, and each student expressed joy at sharing their knowledge.

For instance, throughout his research about his trade, a master builder, Marcus Lewis thought it was most interesting that "it took four different kinds of carpenters to build a house: a mason, a jointer, a housewright, and a master builder." About the day, Marcus said, "It actually felt Colonial."

Jordan Johnston, Pocahantas, echoed, "It was fun because we really got to learn about our topics and be in character...I liked seeing the little kids walking around and learning."

Meanwhile, Danya Peacock, a silversmith, said, "I really liked that the Middle Schoolers came."

For some students, like Anna Blackmon, a schoolmaster, the experience allowed exploration in already-existing interests. Anna said, "When I grow up, I really want to be a teacher, and I thought it would be fun to find out what it was like in Colonial times to be a school master."

Students demonstrated quite a bit of learning, a lot of which contextualized for them how complex work was in Colonial days and how fortunate we are now.

Eliza Marcus, who studied games, commented that, "They played really fun games that we don't play now, and it was fun to learn and share some of the common games they played...But there was almost no time for play in Colonial times. Today, we have extracurricular activities and sports, and things like that. We play every day here!"

One observation shared by a few of our administrators was how convincingly each student inhabited his or her character. Some even had accents and back-stories! Many refused to be pulled out of character, even by tough questions. Each student had a firm understanding of Colonial culture and could answer even probing questions like, "How did you start your work in this trade?" Or, "How much do you get paid?" "Can you read?" "Do you have a big family to take care of?"

Such questions often were answered in elaborate and accurate detail! "We moved to America, and my parents needed help, so I got an apprenticeship where I could." Or, "I usually get paid in bread or eggs." "I can read, but it's because I'm wealthy. Most girls my age can't." "I have two sons who have already married and moved out, and I have three other children who help with the work and chores."

This is a unique and stunning example of the hands-on learning that happens at Burgundy, and the way we share it with the community. This day was enjoyed by our entire community, but especially the 4/5 students, who are continuing their hands-on, in-depth learning during their Colonial-themed Cove trips this week and next. 

Congratulations to them and their teachers, across the disciplines and including specials teachers, as well as parents, who support their learning and immersion!