Through a series of primary source artifact stations (newspaper articles, letters, will and testament), students were able to investigate the motives behind the artifacts, giving students a sense of place, chronology and empathy with regard to the decisions that were made during a time when important precedents were being set for our nation - precedents that paved the way for the stability, equality and fairness that would develop under the new democratic republic. Learners were notably intrigued by Washington's evolving views on slavery, starting with his inheritance of enslaved people at age eleven and eventually promising their freedom upon his death. During their investigation, it was clear that they were gaining a true understanding of the weight of responsibility Washington felt in shaping the new nation and his desire to leave behind a legacy that exemplified character, humility and unwavering love and hope for our country.
Students also explored Washington's farewell address, analyzing specific excerpts to help better understand the advice that Washington was offering to help move the nation forward. Their in-depth analysis was used to help them prepare for their first official Socratic seminar. Through these seminars, students shared and explored thoughts and ideas that extended their thinking beyond the document, bringing relevance and meaning to our lives today. I was both surprised and fascinated by the insightful connections that learners were making during their discussions, particularly the connections they were making between our nation's past, present and future. Washington would have been in awe.
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