Mariner language arts students create museum relic projects
Sixth-grade students at Mariner Middle School transformed their study of mythology and ancient civilizations into an immersive learning experience with the creation of a Mariner Museum of Relics, a live walkthrough display set up in the school library.
As part of their English language arts curriculum, students have been exploring mythological themes, ancient cultures and storytelling through literature. Together, students read “Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan, using the novel as a foundation for understanding mythology and its modern connections. In addition, each student selected an independent reading book to further expand their knowledge and inspire their individual projects.
Drawing from these texts, students created original artifacts, or relics, that reflect key themes, symbols and ideas from their independent reading sources. Students were given full creative freedom in designing their projects, using a wide range of materials including 3D printers, clay, popsicle sticks, real tree branches and wood to bring their ideas to life.
In the culmination of the museum experience, students showcased their work in the school library, and invited classmates, staff members and families to tour the projects. Students were on hand to explain the significance of their relics and share the stories behind their creations.
“The creativity and depth of understanding our students demonstrated through this project has been incredible,” said Amanda Matarazzi, an English language arts teacher at Mariner. “By connecting literature to hands-on creation, students were able to think critically, express their ideas in unique ways and truly bring the stories they’ve read to life.”
The project highlights a cross-section of skills, combining literary analysis with creativity and presentation. By designing artifacts tied to their reading, students deepen their understanding of symbolism, character development and cultural influence while engaging in hands-on, project-based learning.
