Uncovering our history

Brette Roberston of Ecole Publique Odyssée talks about her project on Canadian Immigration.

Students had a ‘blast presenting the past’ at the 4th annual Nipissing regional Historica fair. Just over one hundred projects were on display at Nipissing University, from students representing three of the four local school boards.

“This is the first year we’ve had students from a French language board, which shows that through word of mouth the event is growing”, says regional fair director, Jennifer Straub.

One of those students is Brette Robertson from École Publique Odyssée. “I think it is awesome that the school is allowing us the opportunity to participate. It’s a good experience and it sets the foundation for French students in North Bay to continue learning about History and taking part in Historica.”

Straub says the main goal of Historica is to help give students the critical inquiry skills they need to excel in social studies. “So by allowing them to participate in hands on activities, the students really are engaged in the research aspect of history. They’re learning literacy skills, presentation skills, all encompassing the history of Canada.”

Some of the participants were no stranger to the popular history fair. Fourteen year old Sara Pratte of St-Joseph’s school took part in her fourth Historica. She did her project on the Oak Island, an area in Nova Scotia where a treasure was buried and has yet to be found.

“We put in a lot of work, because you need to do a lot of research and if you’re doing it in French you need to translate everything and get it corrected.” says Sarah.

While many students have clearly taken pride in their projects, organizers are also very pleased with teacher and parent involvement.

“To have a community where 99-percent of the students have their parents bring them in, it’s a real family affair at Historica. You see parents bringing in artefacts from their grandparents, just being involved in student success”, shares Straub.

Five students from the regional fair will be invited to the provincial Historica competition in Ottawa later this month.