“Once upon a time” came to life in a new way for first grade students at Four Peaks Elementary School, 1785 N. Idaho Road in Apache Junction.

The students received a hands-on history lesson by seeing, holding and using items from the past to show how things such as electronics, school, chores and more have evolved over time. The project was part of the first-grade Wonders that includes a week-long unit titled: “Now and Then” that asked the question: How is life different than it was long ago?

“Last year we had to do this unit online, so this year we decided to make a big deal out of it,” said LeeAnna Smith, one of four first grade teachers at the school. “We all brought in different things that we thought would show how things have changed. The biggest hit was the typewriter, which is still in my room because they all beg to use it.”

Smith was joined by her fellow teachers — Tricia Hayward, Jen Mewhorter and Holly Collins — in gathering items such as old telephones, video cameras, an overhead projector, a washboard for hand-washing clothes, old toys, an iron that had to be heated on the stove or in a fireplace before pressing clothes, and more.

The children enthusiastically embraced the learning segment.

“I learned that typewriters were used before computers. I had fun typing on the typewriter,” said Hunter Ree, who is in Smith’s class.

“I learned about old toys,” said Juan Mendez, who is in Smith’s class.

“I learned how people used a feather quill to write. I liked using the typewriter the best,” said Serenity Tabor, who is in Smith’s class.

“The iron was so heavy. I just liked to hold it,” said Dixie Summerville.

“When you put your eye in the old camera it looks like a long time ago movie,” said Ryan Hong, who is in Mewhorter’s class.

“I learned how old video cameras worked. I liked all the old phones.”-Sophia Caruso, Miss Collins’s Class.

“I learned about old stamps and how cameras worked,” said Sapphire Howe, who is in Collins’ class.

“I liked the typewriters because you could write stories,” said Berlynn Miller, who is in Hayward’s class.

“I really like the toy school. You got to see what it was like to be in a schoolhouse,” said Victor Mendez Rodriguez, who is in Hayward’s class.

See the video on Smith’s first grade class YouTube channel, youtu.be/eqFHHrloAFQ.

Student enrollment is currently being accepted at all Apache Junction Unified School District schools. More information is available atajusd.org.

About Four Peaks Elementary School

Named for the renowned four-peaked ridge of the Mazatzal Mountains, Four Peaks Elementary School staff and students embrace the pioneering spirit of the region while welcoming newcomers to join them in their pursuit of excellence.

Editor’s note: Sally Marks is the public relations specialist for Apache Junction Unified School District.