Fifth Graders Showcase Learning Through Capstone Projects

Fifth grade students at Midland, Milton and Osborn schools are learning that their voices and actions can make a difference. Through their Capstone projects, the students are exploring what it means to advocate, educate and act as they prepare to leave their mark on the school community and beyond.
 

The project challenges students to identify issues and topics they are passionate about, conduct meaningful research and consider how they can create positive change. Some topics the students explored included deforestation, stress management, landmarks of Rye and the Hudson Valley, animal protection, space exploration, sports clinics and community development.
 

“The students strengthen their presentation, interview and interpersonal communication skills,” fifth grade teacher Katy Buderman said. “Most importantly, the students are encouraged to discover passions that can inspire lifelong learning.”
 

Buderman said the project teaches students to advocate and act for people who are less fortunate than themselves and consider how they can impact their community. The project culminated in a presentation that celebrated the students’ hard work and provided an opportunity for reflection on the experience.