April 12, 2011                                                                                       

 Canadian History Comes to Life at 2011 DSBN Heritage Fair  

Students at the District School Board of Niagara will be taking a look back through time next week at the seventh annual Regional Heritage Fair being held at School Support Services in Niagara-on-the-Lake on April 19.

Over 130 student projects celebrating the many different aspects of Canadian history will be on display during the day-long event. Students from Grades four to eight from across Niagara competed at school level Historica Fairs to qualify for the regional fair.

The Heritage Fairs program encourages students to explore Canadian history in a dynamic, hands-on learning environment. Students use the medium of their choice to tell stories about Canadian heroes, legends, milestones and achievements.

“Canada is a proud country with a rich history and there are countless stories to be told,” says Heather Matthews, DSBN Consultant for Canadian and World Studies. “Our students have worked hard to prepare these projects and present some of the most compelling stories in national and local history. Some students have also chosen to look at the traditions and historical significance within their own families.” 

Matthews adds that participating in the Heritage Fairs program is an excellent way for students to explore Canadian history and develop effective research skills. “Preparing and presenting these projects also allows students to develop essential oral, written and visual literacy skills,” says Matthews.  

At the Regional Fair, students will also have the opportunity to take part in several insightful workshops, including a musket demonstration by the staff at Fort George.

In this video, Applewood Public School teacher Bryce Honsinger talks about the benefits of participating in the Heritage Fairs program: