Sudbrook students examine souvenirs from Elyse Sherman’s Semester at Sea.

In an effort to bring the enormity of the world into the classroom, Maribeth Sherman’s sixth grade World Cultures students at Sudbrook Magnet Middle School spent the second semester following the travels of a former Sudbrook student, Elyse Sherman.

Elyse, a student at the University of Pittsburgh, participated in a Semester at Sea during the spring of her sophomore year. At the beginning of her voyage, students researched each of her ports of call and sent letters of introduction along with advice and information about the areas she was scheduled to visit. As Elyse visited each country, she kept students informed of her adventures through her blog. Students were able to read Elyse’s observations and reactions and then send her comments and questions.

This exchange of communication lasted from January through April as a classroom display board was transformed into a pictorial journal tracing Elyse’s adventures in Brazil, South Africa, India, Myanmar (formerly Burma), Vietnam, China, and Japan. Students learned about cyclones and pirates in the Indian Ocean, improved their knowledge of absolute location, and discussed nautical history and traditions such as Neptune Day. In addition, students were frequently able to apply their knowledge of cultural elements as they discovered and discussed new and interesting cultural practices around the world.

University of Pittsburgh student Elyse Sherman communicated with Sudbrook students throughout her world travels then returned to her former middle school to talk with students about what she saw and learned.

On May 12, Elyse visited Sudbrook to show a video and share artifacts and souvenirs from her voyage. Students had many questions and enjoyed being able to speak with her and listen to her stories. After Elyse left, the students created a class newspaper with each student depicting one aspect of her voyage they found to be particularly appealing.

Elyse’s journey opened many eyes, as noted in the students’ news articles. According to Desiree H-B., “Semester at Sea is an excellent program for college students to... learn the different cultures of the world.”

Alana B. agrees. “Personally,” she said, “I thought that the best way for students to learn about World Cultures is for them to experience it!”

Students also received a pair of Japanese chopsticks which Elyse brought back. Students practiced with popcorn or Cheerios and most were able to master this skill. Homework was to eat dinner with their new chopsticks!

Here’s hoping that future World Cultures students will be able to participate as vicarious and actual voyagers in the years to come.

Story by Shalini Morgan, science teacher and Good News Ambassador, Sudbrook Magnet Middle School. Photos courtesy of Sudbrook Magnet Middle School.