RPEMS Backpack Journalism

Before the holiday break, students had the opportunity to reflect on the people who have made a meaningful impact in their lives. As part of a special activity, they wrote heartfelt gratitude letters to express their appreciation. They then had the choice to either record themselves reading their letters directly to the person—capturing their genuine reactions—or share their message on camera. This experience not only encouraged self-expression but also fostered deeper connections and gratitude within the community.

Before the Holiday break students were tasked with writing gratitude letters to anyone that has positively impacted their lives. They were then tasked with the choice to record themselves reading the letters to the person and getting their reactions or reading it to the camera. 

Students were given the meaningful task of creating a family tree, tracing at least three generations on both their maternal and paternal sides. This activity encouraged them to explore their heritage, strengthen family connections, and gain a deeper appreciation for their roots.

During their visit to the Peale Museum, students were challenged to create their own videos, capturing their unique perspectives on the exhibits. Working together, they recorded one another as they explored the museum, selecting an exhibit that resonated with them. In their student-produced videos, they shared thoughtful reflections on why the exhibit spoke to them, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper connection to history and art.

Working in pairs, students collaborated to craft creative scripts, bringing their ideas to life through storytelling and performance. They took on the roles of actors or recruited others to participate, producing engaging videos that showcased their imagination, teamwork, and storytelling skills. This project encouraged artistic expression while fostering collaboration and communication.

In pairs, students took turns filming each other as they answered the thought-provoking question, "If you could change the world, what would you change?" This activity encouraged them to reflect on their values, express their hopes for the future, and engage in meaningful conversations about creating a positive impact. Through this project, students not only developed their communication skills but also gained insight into each other’s perspectives and aspirations.