Last week we ventured to Newport to visit Touro Synagogue. There was a wonderful moment when a student asked, "Wait, are we here for Social Studies or for Reading?" I always love when the work we're doing feels genuinely integrated. In our current class novel, Out of Many Waters, students learned about the Spanish and Portuguese Inquisition, as the protagonist Isobel is a victim of the Inquisition. They were shocked to learn that the history of Touro dates back to the same time. Although our novel is historical fiction, it's incredible for students to understand the actual history behind the text.
The entire class was very well-behaved and asked impressive questions. We talked about how Rhode Island was the prime location for religious freedom and what the Jewish community did in Newport to create a community.
Please be sure to ask your child about this amazing field trip!
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