Ancestor Project The social studies unit we are working on covers ancestors and change over time. One of the second grade standards requires that students investigate an ancestor’s past using primary resources (interviews). With many extended families celebrating holidays together in the next few weeks, I hope this will be an excellent time to do this project. This will be the only written homework until it is due, so that students and families have sufficient time to work together on this rewarding assignment. As always, students should continue to read at home DAILY. We will be completing some of the “rough draft” work for this project in class. I have included some examples of projects and ideas on my blog. Please keep in mind that while you are helping your child do research for this project, he/she should complete as much of the project independently as possible. The items below need to be displayed on a 40”x 28” project board that can stand alone. THE COMPLETED PROJECT BOARD NEEDS TO BE TURNED IN ON JANUARY 13TH. Families are responsible for purchasing the project board and assembling at home. We will be hosting an Ancestor Museum for students and parents very shortly thereafter. More details to follow on the exact date. 1. Grandparent Interview: Please help your child phone or visit with a grandparent (or relative who is MUCH older than his/her parents) and ask questions based on the information needed on the “Interview of Grandparent” form included in this packet. Please make sure that your child is asking the questions! Next, have them fill out the venn diagram comparing and contrasting their life to their grandparent’s life and post this on the board. If possible we would like a photograph (copies are best) of the grandparent/older relative and a current photograph of the student. The photos of the grandparent/older relative can be current photos or childhood photos. These pictures will be glued to the project so please do not send treasured originals.

2. My Life Timeline: Students will create a timeline of their life that will be displayed on the project board. This timeline should include at least 7 important events from the student’s life from birth to present day. Your child may decide how he/she wants to display the timeline. A possible template is included and a rough draft will be completed in class. 3. Family Tree: A form is provided entitled, “Family Tree.” This form is an organizer for creating your very own original Family Tree. This family tree will be displayed on the project board. This part of the assignment is where your child’s creative side can shine through. 4. Ancestor Flag: Please have your child decorate a flag representing a country of ancestry. 5. Heritage Doll: The final portion of the Ancestor Project will be the Heritage Doll. A full description of how to complete this doll can be found in this packet. Please display the doll on the project board as well. 6. Your child may choose to include other items that are representative of his/her Ancestry on the project board as well. (i.e. food, photos, maps, etc.) Please let me know if you have any questions about the project. Again, please see my blog for ideas and examples. Be creative and have fun with this project! It is meant to be a meaningful project that can bring your family together. Sincerely,