After completing their 9th-grade history research assignment, a material culture-based paper, students responded to a reflection survey on their process and progress. This survey was introduced in the 2019-2020 school year and was enhanced this year with a section that offers students space to record advice for next year's 9th graders to help them succeed with the project.
 

The reflection surveys allow students to process their experiences and use that information to improve on subsequent, more challenging assignments. The student responses also help the History Department and Library reflect on their teaching practices and better prepare rising 9th graders for success.
 

Ninth-grade students dig into the process of historical research, honing their ability to think and communicate as historians. For this project, students discover, evaluate, and analyze varied secondary research sources, pose researchable questions, and create an original thesis that they use to frame a sustained historical argument.

Upon the completion of their assignment, each grade will pass down advice to the grade below. Passing on this knowledge and advice from class to class provides an opportunity for collaboration across grade levels.
 

To see a highlight reel of the 9th graders’ advice, please click here.