The Center for Authentic Intellectual Work (AIW) works with a lot of teachers who have a hard time formulating practical examples of applying classroom learning to contexts outside the classroom, also known as "Value Beyond School" in the AIW framework. Here is one example that made the news in Minnesota. What's important isn't that a teacher had a war veteran come and speak to her class on Veterans' Day, but rather that students are researching and presenting a problem AND a solution for their city council to consider.
MAPLEWOOD, Minn. - A fifth-grade class in Maplewood is leading the charge to help a World War II veteran get a Purple Heart.
Russell Anderson, 93, of Oakdale, said he was injured by enemy shrapnel on D-Day in 1944 and spent nine months in the hospital, but he never got a Purple Heart.
"He deserves the Purple Heart," said Ken Vick, Anderson's nephew.
Anderson was speaking to Sara Paul's fifth-grade class at Weaver Elementary in Maplewood on Veterans Day when students learned he never received the honor. That motivated the kids to do some research and start an essay-writing campaign.
"We hope that he gets a Purple Heart," said student Kevin Clothier.
About 30 students took their case to the Maplewood City Council Monday night. The council approved a resolution supporting efforts to get Anderson his Purple Heart.
Click here to read the full story, KARE 11, March 8, 2010
(Note: Special Thanks to Cathy Wurzer at Minnesota Public Radio for the story on Morning Edition.)