Jennifer Janzen

University of Winnipeg Collegiate, Winnipeg (Manitoba)

Ms. Janzen’s students completed significant primary source research at local and provincial archives in order to investigate the lives of various people throughout Manitoba’s history. The purpose of the project was to encourage students to discover how the actions, ideals and convictions of their historical figures influenced Manitoba’s role as a province and nation member. After gathering and interpreting their research, students then collaborated with a local playwright, Debbie Patterson, to create a play called Shadows of Manitoba’s Past. The project culminated in a public performance and exhibition of their work. Students performed their monologues and interacted with the audience by presenting their research, answering questions, and teaching community members about 300 years of Manitoba’s history.