Asking grandparents questions about their school

Engaging with our grandparents about their school days can be a fascinating journey into the past, providing insights into a very different educational experience. To facilitate this exploration, students are encouraged to collaborate with a partner to formulate ten thoughtful questions that delve into the intricacies of their grandparents' primary school life. Questions could cover a range of topics, from the level of discipline and consequences for misbehaviour, to the physical aspects of the classroom like the desks and whether milk was provided. Other queries might include whether their grandparents recall visits from the 'nit nurse' or dentists, which were common in schools during certain periods.

Once the questions are prepared, students are tasked with interviewing their grandparents to capture their personal anecdotes and memories. It's important for students to remain open to unexpected stories or unique recollections that might arise during the conversation, as these can enrich the overall understanding of historical school experiences. After gathering this valuable information, students will return to their classrooms to share these intriguing stories and differences with their peers, thus creating a tapestry of shared history and educational evolution. This activity not only bridges generational gaps but also provides a comparative look at how schooling has changed over time.