Abraham Lincoln shares how he influenced the state of Illinois.
Students at Hometown Elementary recently combined social studies, research, and writing skills in an exciting project highlighting influential people connected to Illinois. After completing their unit on the Midwest, students were challenged to learn more about individuals who have made a lasting impact on the state.
Students began by selecting a famous Illinoisan—such as actress Betty White or actress Gina Rodriguez—or an influential figure who helped shape Illinois, including historical leaders like Abraham Lincoln or former President Barack Obama. Once students chose their person, they used technology to research important facts about their life, accomplishments, and contributions.
To help organize their research, students completed a graphic organizer before drafting a five-paragraph biography about their chosen figure. This process allowed students to practice key informational writing skills while learning how to summarize important details and organize their ideas.
Students then took their learning a step further by transforming their biographies into autobiographies. Writing in the first person on index cards, students imagined they were the historical figure telling their own life story. This activity helped students think about perspective while reinforcing their understanding of the person they researched.
To complete the project, students created colorful informational posters highlighting important facts and accomplishments of their influential Illinoisan. The posters included key details from their research and served as a visual way to showcase what they learned.
Students fully embraced their roles by dressing up as their chosen person and standing completely still like wax statues. Each student remained “frozen” until a visitor pretended to press their imaginary button. Once the button was “activated,” the statue came to life and the student began reading their autobiography, sharing important facts about their influential figure’s life, accomplishments, and impact on Illinois.
This interactive format made the learning experience engaging for both presenters and visitors. Younger students enjoyed bringing the statues to life, while older students appreciated hearing the research their peers had worked so hard to prepare. The Wax Museum not only highlighted students’ research and writing skills but also created a memorable opportunity for the entire school to celebrate history and learning together.
This engaging project allowed students to connect their social studies learning with their writing skills while celebrating the many individuals who have helped shape the history and culture of Illinois.