America, Here We Come…

On Tuesday, 4-14-09, the fifth graders at RCA are going to take part in a simulation that represents the journey that immigrants traveled between 1890 and 1925. The simulation includes the voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, the arrival at Ellis Island, the medical inspection, and the immigration inspectors. The goal of this activity is for the students to understand that this journey was not a leisurely trip, but that it was a harsh, tough trip. They will begin in one classroom that has been set up like a steerage room that third class immigrant would stay in. Next, they will be rushed up the stairs to the medical examination room. They will go through a mock medical examine. Then, if they pass, they with go to the room with the immigration inspectors. Here they will have a two minute question and answer sessions with an inspector. If they are not detained for any reason, they may then begin their new life in the Americas. This is going to be a unique experience for both the fifth graders and the staff members that are taking part in this activity!