Students in Corinne Fallon’s and Caitlin Theisen’s class used the middle school’s outside learning space as an interactive history lesson on immigration in the United States. 

They became experts on different points of entry throughout American history, focusing on two of the most significant immigration stations, Ellis Island and Angel Island. They learned through their research that these two historic sites, while both serving as gateways to America, had distinctly different stories to tell. 

To visualize their learning and newly acquired research, the students used hula hoops as Venn diagrams, physically sorting information about the similarities and differences between the two island entry points. This hands-on approach helped the students see how both locations served as entry points for immigrants seeking new lives in America, while also understanding the unique challenges and experiences faced at each site. 

The combination of outdoor learning and collaborative discussion brought this important chapter of American history to life in a memorable and engaging way.