Susie K. Pederson

The goal of "A World of Difference" is to give first-grade students at Copper Trails Elementary School a historical look at how heritage and ethnicity has helped shape society and the world around us. Through a study of nationalities, Pederson will teach students to recognize and celebrate the different languages, art, dress, food, music, events and literature that gives each of us pride and cause for celebration. Students will be immersed in project-based learning activities integrating subjects across the curriculum, including social studies, reading and writing. Hands-on explorations, presentations from guest speakers, performances by dance groups, works of artists, and research will help them gain an understanding of diversity. Using the Internet, students will also build relationships with other first-grade students in the countries being studied. Through this year-long study, students will learn to understand the world around them by creating maps and learning economic principles such as money, commerce and trade. Pederson lives in Goodyear.