The goal in Appalachian Studies: The Real District 12 was to introduce campers to rich and varied history and culture of Appalachia through hit book and movie series, “The Hunger Games.” Over the course of the past two weeks the students have identified similarities between District 12 and Appalachia, investigated the different areas that make up the region, and the music, food, and work that was typical. They even got to make and taste homemade butter!
All this research culminated in their final project. The students created items that might be entered into a State Fair competition. They could choose from cookbook, art piece, short story, speech or quilt pattern. Their enthusiasm for the subject and depth of research was obvious from their finished projects. Each square in one of the “quilts” represented different aspects of Appalachia, such as a banjo for music, coal miners’ tool for the work that was prevalent, and common food for poverty. Patrick gave a great comparative analysis between the Hunger Games District 12 and Appalachia. The speeches and essay were very well researched and written. I think everyone was a winner at this State Fair!
