Fifth graders at Mandalay Elementary School brought history to life during the school’s annual living wax museum on March 10.
Students from the Wantagh school dressed as historical and contemporary figures and presented their biography research projects to parents as part of the long-standing tradition.
“It’s fun and it’s exciting for them,” fifth grade teacher Bridget Montario said. “They all look forward to it because they remember the older kids doing it in previous years.”
The cafeteria was transformed into a museum, where 46 students from Montario’s class and Joy Giangrande’s class displayed tri-fold boards and stood in costume as their chosen figures. As parents walked through the exhibit, they tapped a button to hear each student deliver a prepared speech about their subject.
Students portrayed a wide range of current and historical figures, including presidents, scientists and inventors. Among them were Louis Braille, creator of the reading and writing system for people who are visually impaired; marine biologist Rachel Carson; Naomi Parker Fraley, widely believed to have inspired the “Rosie the Riveter” image; and Venetian explorer Marco Polo.
Students conducted their research using books and online sources. Their essays and tri-fold displays highlighted each subject’s early life and major accomplishments.
The biography unit lasted about two months, and teachers said students developed stronger research skills and gained a deeper appreciation for people whose contributions have shaped society.
