This project was first done by the students of Mrs. Geddes's World Studies
classes at Forest Oak MS in the spring of 1997. Each group of students was assigned a craft to study. We researched the jobs and occupations of colonial times. We collected this information from various types of resources. These resources
included:
videotapes,
the internet,
encyclopedias,
other reference books,
the World Book on computer,
and additional resources from the public library.
Each group prepared a folder on their trade. Each presentation folder was
to include a picture of a typical workplace exterior (and optionally interior)
used by their tradesmen; the tools they would have used, and a written section
telling about the trade. The minimum written content was to respond to the following
questions:
Describe this craft. What did this person do? How did they make something?
(List the steps to make something.)
What training or education did the person need to get skills? What were
the skills that an apprentice (student) need to learn for this craft?
Why was this craft or business needed? Besides getting paid, why would
this person like doing the job? (What about the work would be satisfying?)
Each group presented their completed project to their class. The trades showcased
on these webpages are only samples of the students' work and effort. When the
students finished their projects, Mrs. Geddes selected a small group of her
students to edit, revise, and post up the information on our school's webpage.
We hope you find it informative and enjoyable.
Update 2003
This year the students basically followed the same procedure described above.
The difference is that the class presentation has been incorporated into this
site. Each student has contributed to these pages. Some worked overtime to improve
their graphics or edit their writing. One student inlisted the help of an Instructional
Assistant to help with his typing so that he could meet the deadline. The very
possibility of publishing has made this a fun and instructive project.
To give us feedback, either use the form on the feedback page or use the link
below to generate an e-mail. Thank you for your time and interest.
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