By: Dr. Rachel Powell – Upper School Humanities
Menaul School is unique for many reasons, one that benefitted my US History classes this year – it is a place where students and teachers are invited to grow together.
Spring semester 2025, I became aware of a teaching tool I had not used in US History before – the Case Study Method. This method was recently developed by a Harvard history professor for his US History courses. The case method was such a success with Harvard students, he offered it to high school history educators around the US. Without hesitation, Chris Ferrara, Assistant Head of Menaul School, supported my desire to learn more.
After taking a summer course on the method, I was eager to try it with my Junior level US History classes. I selected a case study that dealt with the complexities of moving the United States from a confederacy to a constitutional democratic republic. Make no mistake, the method is demanding. The case studies are identical to what Harvard undergraduate and graduate students are expected to read and process. However, a cornerstone of Menaul School’s approach to learning is “High Challenge, High Support.” With the help of the brilliant Kate Roelser (Humanities Support Teacher), I knew the pieces were in place to give this opportunity a go.
Students read and annotated the 26-page case study over a period of two weeks. Then, the students discussed the case study in small groups with guiding questions. The experience culminated in a full-class discussion about the case study that included themes and details of developing the United States Constitution. I do not exaggerate when I say it was spectacular! The students eagerly shared their learnings from the case study and delved into the challenges of developing a nation with enthusiasm and confidence. In an anonymous evaluation of the experience, one student wrote, “I thought the case study was interesting because it made me think more deeply about real-life decision-making and how different perspectives affect outcomes.” Another said, “I feel that more classes should be taught with the case method, because I found it effective and also very interactive and fun in the discussion.”
Menaul is a place where faculty and students are invited learn and grow. Where all may think deeply and have fun doing it. I’m grateful to be a part of it!
