Grade 1 Students Bring Africa to Life at Annual Expo

On Thursday, June 4, Far Hills Grade 1 students proudly shared the culmination of weeks of learning during the annual Grade 1 Expo. Families gathered to celebrate the students’ hard work as they showcased their research, creativity, and confidence through an interdisciplinary study of Africa.

Beginning in early May, students embarked on a cross-curricular exploration that connected social studies, reading, writing, science, art, and music. Their study began by comparing North America and Africa, examining countries, flags, landmarks, bodies of water, biomes, and wildlife. As their understanding deepened, students focused on the African continent, learning about significant landmarks such as Lake Victoria, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Madagascar, as well as the Indian and Atlantic Oceans and the Mediterranean and Red Seas.

At the heart of the project was an in-depth animal research study. Each student selected an African animal and investigated its physical characteristics, habitat, diet, and other fascinating facts. Using articles, books, videos, and research resources, students practiced identifying key information, summarizing what they learned, and putting facts into their own words.

"One of the most rewarding parts of this project was watching students become the experts in the room." Grade 1 teacher, Danielle Kinney, said. "They were so excited to share their knowledge with their families and answer questions about their animals. Seeing their pride and confidence shine through during the Expo was a wonderful reminder of how powerful student-driven learning can be."

Students transformed their research into original, illustrated books about their chosen animals filled with facts about its habitat, diet, behaviors, and unique characteristics. Through the writing process, they practiced research, organization, and critical thinking skills while learning how to communicate new information in their own words. During the Expo, students presented their books to families and enthusiastically shared what they had learned.

The Expo also highlighted the many ways students applied their learning through hands-on experiences. In science and social studies, students created topographical maps of Africa and sculpted models of their chosen animals, bringing the continent’s geography and wildlife to life. Music and art classes offered students an opportunity to explore African culture through creativity and performance. Students learned traditional African songs and dances, while in art they created their own drums inspired by the Djembe, one of Africa’s most recognizable instruments. Using cardboard tubing and other found materials, they transformed everyday objects into functional musical instruments while learning how drums have long been used for storytelling, celebration, and communication across African communities. 

"The Expo captured the sense of wonder that first graders bring to learning. They approached every part of the project with enthusiasm, and sharing that excitement with their families made the day truly memorable." Grade 1 teacher, Allyn Merida, said.

After sharing their projects and presenting their original books to family, friends, and teachers, the event concluded with students and their families gathering together to sing and play the handmade drums they had created. The joyful performance served as a fitting finale to weeks of research, creativity, and collaboration.

As a culminating project for the school year, the Grade 1 Expo demonstrated just how much students have grown as learners. From becoming more independent researchers to taking ownership of their work and confidently teaching others about Africa and their chosen animals, students embraced every stage of the process. Their enthusiasm was evident not only in their presentations but also in the excitement they brought to learning from one another. The Grade 1 Expo was a celebration of curiosity, discovery, and the remarkable growth that can happen when students are inspired to explore the world around them.

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