Photograph by Megan Seldon. Students brainstorm on why our ancient ancestors migrated from Africa tens of thousands of years ago.
Sixth graders from Ferebee-Hope Elementary, a public school in South East Washington, DC, visited the National Geographic headquarters as part of the Live It, Learn It program.
Representing Mission Programs, members of the Genographic team discussed the Genographic Project with these enthusiastic students. Well ahead of the game, the Ferebee-Hope students already knew that their ancient ancestors were from Africa and were excited to learn that they had more in common with their favorite celebrities than they thought. As part of the discussion, they viewed a portion of The Human Family Tree, the new documentary on the Genographic Project to expand their understanding of our shared origins.
Photograph by Colby Bishop.6th graders from Ferebee-Hope Elementary prepare for their visit with the Genographic Project.
"My students and I are so excited to find out where my ancestors originated. I already have some idea, but it will be great to have the science to support my theories. I can't wait to share my results with my students - and with my family at our next reunion!" said Ms. Hallums, their teacher who swabbed that day. Following their visit with the Genographic Project, the students visited with representatives from National Geographic television to learn about the editing techniques used in The Human Family Tree.
The Washington DC based program - Live it, Learn it - works to inspire learning through experience by creating relationships between unique businesses with local public schools. This is National Geographic Channel's second year participating in the program. The students will return to National Geographic Headquarters in a few months to screen their "Kidumentaries," short documentaries that they are working on to demonstrate what they have learned through the program.
Photograph by Megan Seldon.6th grade teacher, Ms. Hallums, swabs during the session. She and her classroom will watch her results progress through the testing process online and then discuss her results in 6-8 weeks as they are available.
