Queen Grace Figueroa and King Ryan McLaughlin (both 8th grade Social Studies teachers) are stymied by the disloyalty to the crown. Photo by Joyce Haven.

A member of The Revolting Children holds The Declaration of Revolution poster signed by the group. Photo Courtesy LAPS

The Revolting Children airing their grievances against the British monarchy during the taxation rebellion. Photo Courtesy LAPS

For the first time in the years of taxation week, supporters of the crown participatedin the rebellion. Photo Courtesy LAPS

LAPS NEWS RELEASE

As part of their social studies class, eighth graders at Los Alamos Middle School were subjected to taxation week at the beginning of October to learn about colonial struggles with the British leading up to the American Revolution.

Over the past few years, the 8th grade social studies team has developed an immersive learning experience that helps students better understand the tensions that led to the American Revolution. What began as a simple classroom simulation gradually expanded into a schoolwide activity built around historical British taxation policies and civic participation.

“Throughout the week, students encountered ‘taxes’ and creative challenges, such as examining historical propaganda and creating their own responses, which helped deepen their understanding of how ideas and persuasion influenced the time period,” explained LAMS Social Studies Teacher, Grace Figueroa. Students were subjected to the Stamp Act, the Townshend Act, the Sugar Act and the Intolerable Acts. By the end of the week, students had organized a taxation rebellion.

First year teacher Ryan McLaughlin observed, “The project allowed students to engage with each other to highlight the actual events and emotional reactions surrounding the American Revolution.” He added, “By the end, many students described the week as one of the most memorable and meaningful parts of their history studies.”

The Revolting Children, led by GATE teachers Jacob Wadlington and Sarah Symanski, and LAMS librarian Angelina Manfredi, composed The Declaration of Revolution, listing their grievances against the British king. For the first time in the years of taxation week, supporters of the Crown participated in the rebellion held at the end of the week.

The 8th grade social studies team of Grace Figueroa, Randee Johnson and Ryan McLaughlin represented the British monarchy, even dressing the part. They agree that this exercise engages students inlearning and gives them a better understanding of the plight of the colonists during the time leading up to the American Revolution.

Photo four: For the first time in the years