Our fifth-grade students recently completed an inspiring project that brought history and faith together in meaningful ways. As part of a project-based learning unit, students researched, wrote, designed slideshows, and presented biographical reports on notable Christian figures whose lives made a lasting impact on the world.
Each student selected a “Hero of the Faith” — individuals such as William Tyndale, Samuel Morris, George Müller and Katie Davis Majors — and explored key aspects of their lives and legacies. Their reports covered several topics, including:
• Early Life • Education • Where they lived and worked • Timeline of their life
• Major accomplishments and significant events • Impact on the world
• Life lesson(s) learned (from the student’s perspective) • Glossary of terms used in the presentation
• Sources • A Q&A session with classmates and parents
Through this project, students strengthened their research and writing skills while learning to communicate ideas through digital slideshows and oral presentations — meeting learning standards for informational writing, presentation, and inquiry-based research. They were challenged to use strong, precise words to make their writing more exciting and engaging.
It was deeply moving to hear our students share their perspectives on these great heroes of the faith—especially as it became clear that many had formed a genuine emotional connection with the person they studied. As they spoke, their words reflected not only understanding but heartfelt admiration for the life and ministry of their chosen figure. This was learning that reached far beyond the classroom presentation—it touched their hearts and, perhaps, their lives in lasting ways.
We are so proud of our fifth graders for the thoughtfulness, creativity, and courage they brought to their projects. In telling the stories of these remarkable Christians, they also discovered timeless lessons about perseverance, faith, and the power of a life devoted to God.
