5th Graders Research and Publish Historical Magazines

During a recent writing unit, 5th graders worked hard to write detailed informational articles on a variety of American history topics. Students worked together with their peers to publish a powerful magazine that focused on a significant historical angle, from tragic disasters to the Civil Rights Movement, amazing inventors to outstanding athletes. They made sure to do lots of thorough research using resources from the internet, books, and short documentaries. They also cited their sources and learned how to quote evidence like a reporter for a newspaper. It was a fun glimpse into different aspects of American history and the publishing world.

During the publishing process, students also learned a bit about elements of good magazine design. How do fonts evoke a specific time period from history? How do different colors and images affect the tone or mood of a story? What images are more powerful than others? How can text and words be displayed together in ways that both impact and move the reader? Why is good design important for the readers who will be looking at your work? 

Students tackled all these questions and more as they produced newsworthy non-fiction pieces. If you'd like to check out what they accomplished for yourself, drop by the 5th grade hallway to check out some of their magazines hanging on the wall!