We report on an action research study undertaken to explore how integrating the Arts in social studies education can increase student participation and motivation, and impact student achievement through that increased motivation and participation. Initial lesson plans addressed multiple intelligences while integrating Arts activities and were adjusted based on the teacher's reflective notes and student feedback. Although not anticipated, we found that giving students' choice in what type of activities to complete had the greatest perceived impact on their motivation and participation. Many students' social studies grades increased in response to the integration of Arts activities and student choice.
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