Living history Mars students participate in wax museum lesson
ADAMS TWP — What do James Madison, Julia Grant and John F. Kennedy have in common?
They all have a first name that begins with “J.”
Also, they all were characters in the wax museum Mars Area Elementary Students held Friday afternoon.
Third graders Jen McClelland and Kim Thomas' classes have been studying presidents and first ladies since they got back from winter break.
“It's part of our curriculum,” McClelland said. “We learn about government.”
Students spent January and February reading, researching and writing about the men and women who have been part of the presidential office.
The project ended with a wax museum presentation, to which families were invited. Students chose or were assigned a president or first lady to dress up as and research.
Visitors Friday afternoon walked around the elementary cafeteria and pushed each character's “button” to learn about them.
McClelland, who has been involved with the wax museum for 16 years, said the event provides students with the chance to both share information and have some fun.
“I think they like the unique way to present,” McClelland said. “It kind of takes that fear (of presenting) away.”
Liam Warfield was President Gerald Ford. He had the chance to present his character to his parents, Rachael and Adam Shaffer.
Instead of picking Ford, Liam was assigned him. But the more he learned about the president, the more he became interested in his life.
Some of the things Liam likes about the president?
“His Secret Service (work),” Liam said.
Liam's work on the project also taught the Shaffers new things about Ford, such as the fact he played football. The Shaffers thought the wax museum was a healthy exercise for students, particularly Liam.
“It was good,” Rachael said. “(It) brought him out of his shell a little.”
Students were encouraged — although not required — to dress up like their characters for the wax museum.McClelland and Thomas advised their students to use things they had at home instead of buying outfits or accessories. One student borrowed her grandmother's hat, according to Thomas.“I love seeing the students with their ... presentations and costumes,” Thomas said.“It's an excellent project,” said Maria Gallagher, whose granddaughter, Madelyn, played Rosalynn Carter. “I love the ones that are dressed up.”Gallagher stopped to listen to Maggie Flickinger, who played Ulysses Grant's wife, Julia.“She was born on a farm near St. Louis,” Maggie said.Thomas said having children learn pieces of history such as this made the event successful.“It's fun,” Thomas said. “They get to learn little bits of info.”Gallagher said she thinks it's important students have the chance to learn about figures in American history, particularly presidential families.“It's amazing how many of them came from humble backgrounds,” Gallagher said.Different students enjoyed different parts of the project. Liam's favorite part was typing. Maggie didn't find much in common with Julia Grant, but she enjoyed learning about her.“It's very important to learn about people in the past,” Maggie said. “You never know what they did.”
