An Interview with Ms. Amy Pollitz - World Fair Teacher

I gave Ms. Pollitz a sheet of questions I'd liked her to answer and she answered all of them.  I am here to report the answers to everyone on the Patch.  Those who haven't read my may want to read it now unless they want to be hopelessly confused.

Kassl: What is the main reason you hold the World Fair?

Pollitz: For students to gain knowledge about different cultures/countries—learn differences, tolerance and respect.  Also, 6th Grade students [are] learning teamwork skills/working together.  Also, [it is] fun for the school!

How long has the World Fair been going on?

This will be the 17th year.

How did you come up with this idea?

It's been a tradition started by retired teacher, Penny Scukanec.

Do you feel that students like the World Fair better than the Renaissance Fair (A fair based on the Renaissance times)?

The concept is the same—it's only the theme that has changed.  So, they are equally liked. :)

What are some other great ideas for games that previous/current countries have had?

India—Cricket.  France—Tour de France (Tricycles).  England—Archery.  Scotland—Golf.  Canada—Hockey."

Do you like holding the World Fair more than the Renaissance Fair?  Please explain.

Again, the concept is the same.  The 6th grade students gain more from the World Fair because they are experts on a specific country.  Students also completed a research paper on their specific World Fair country.

Why & how did you come up with the talent show?

It started out on a smaller scale last year.  This year, it was required that the talent relate to the country.  Again, [they are] learning more about specific countries.  It also gets students to all be involved to participate.

Do you believe that the World Fair is a more effective way of learning than in the classroom?  Please explain.

Yes, it's project based learning.  [This is because they learn] teamwork, real life skills, [and it is a] community service project.