In the Autumn of 2020, I was part of a small group that produced new educational material for the Mountain Gateway Museum. In conjunction with the museum’s needs, we developed an online, downloadable history lesson geared toward local high school students.

The museum desired a way to discuss the cultures and histories of diverse populations on the Western North Carolina ‘frontier.’ Because I had taught in high schools in the past, I proposed the use of ‘zines,’ or short hand-made booklets, to engage students in a lesson based upon current North Carolina State Social Studies Standards. My former students had enjoyed working with this medium and I feel that it is a great way to express creativity while dealing with potentially difficult subject matter. I wrote the educator instructions, created a model zine, and made an instructional video. I additionally contributed to other aspects of the lesson plan, such as research, a step-by-step guide, and other activities and handouts.

I have included my model zine below. For more information or to view additional elements of this lesson, please contact me.