Life returned briefly to Colonial times, thanks to a wax museum created by Elizabeth Scott Elementary fourth graders in the dual language immersion program. This cross-curricular project transformed classrooms into an interactive wax museum and allowed students to deeply engage with history and demonstrate their dual-language skills.
Fourth graders in the dual language immersion program spent time researching and preparing to portray various aspects of 18th-century life. Dressed in Colonial attire, each student became a living statue, ready to speak about their role when activated by a museum guest. Among the aspects of Colonial life in Virginia that the museum showcased were daily routines, clothing, education, work and trade.
The entire presentation was conducted in both English and Spanish, allowing the students to confidently use their target and native languages to explain complex historical concepts. Museum visitors were second graders and third graders in the dual language immersion program.
The Virginia Colonies Wax Museum created a memorable and educational afternoon that celebrated knowledge, public speaking and bilingual achievement.