We are doing projects on women in history. We are also interviewing women that we know in our neighborhood.

We continue with our theme of heroes by honoring women who are trailblazers in science, politics, sports, literature, music, and art. We also ask students to write about women who have made a difference in their lives. Later, students write a letter of appreciation to women they know who are making this world a better place. Our heroes do not have to be famous. It is the courage and sacrifice of many women that have often changed the course of individual lives as well as the course of history.

My class and I commemorate Women's History Month by each student choosing a biography of a famous woman of the past or present, and then writing a biographical book report. The book report must also be shared orally — the girls in costume, the boys with props, posters etc.

Sometime in February I bring in a large number of biographies of women. After a few days, each student picks a woman of interest to research. During the month of March the students complete a research project, and at the end of the month we hold a Women's History Party. Each student invites a woman who is special to him or her (mother, grandmother, neighbor, school employee) to be a guest at the party. The students and guests view the research project display and each student tells about his or her research subject. Their talks begin with "Today I would like to honor _ ." After a short synopsis the child then says, "I would also like to honor my mother (or other guest)" and tells why that person is important in the child's life. Our Women's History Party has become a popular fourth grade tradition.