US History 1735-1791

As I read the book, A History of US by Joy Hakim, I thought why didn't we make history books like this before. As young person I never liked history. I always thought it was boring. It just seemed like random facts and dates that we were to memorize. It wasn't until college that I realized my love for history. As far as I am concerned that was way too late. We need to provide history in a manner that is interesting as well as informative. Some of the examples from Joy Hakims book was the fact that George Washington had slaves and James Madison was only 27 when he helped write the Virginia Constitution. I also liked how she wrote things from a historical perspective without trying to place her view on others. In order for our students to appreciate and understand history we need to provide them  all aspects. Just because she reported that George Washington had slaves does not imply that he is a bad man. It does, however, explain the time frame and the need for change which many people of that time realized. As educators our job is to inform our students about everything and help them understand how we can learn from the mistakes of others.

I must say I also liked the layout of the book. It was easy to read. The pictures kept your interest. I also liked the maps and time lines. It was laid out in a manner that was easy to follow. We need interesting facts and quality pictures if you want to keep the attention of a 21st Century student.

The Brain and Historical Lessons

There were many things that went through my mind as I read about the differences between the right brain and the left brain. I must say that I found myself thinking more as I read Teaching for Historical Literacy. I must say that presentation to all types of learners is key to a successful lesson. What I worried about more was the fact that so much has been removed from education. Social Studies and Science are being squeezed in and in many schools Art, Music, Physical Education and Library have been removed completely for many school districts. I guess what many are forgetting is that being educated goes beyond just reading, writing and arithmetic. Those are key parts of learning but, it is also our job to create well-rounded students. They need to be able to understand many aspects of the world. If we want our students to be productive in the world they need to understand the world. If our students don't understand the past then they won't understand what needs to be done in the future so those same mistakes are not repeated. 

Culminating Activities

In second grade we needed to read to stories in our reading unit that had a similar topic - vegetables and fruits. So we decided to spice the lesson up by having the students watch and be part of the complete process of growing fruits and vegetables. We started with having the students sprout a lima bean and then grow their own lima bean plant. After we completed that activity we finished the unit by having a vegetable and fruit show and tell day and then a tasting day. On show and tell the students brought one fruit or vegetable to show the classes. They needed to give a few facts about the item. It was a great way for the students to learn about new fruits and vegetables. The tasting day was amazing. I couldn't believe the items that came in and how many students were willing to try new things. I think the most unique was chocolate pudding made with avocados. The unit really showed us how to expand on the lesson and see the benefits of hands on activities.

A Little About Me!

I guess I should be telling you a bit about me. I started as a classroom aide 10 years ago. I quickly discovered how much I loved teaching so I went back to school and finished my degree and I am now a 2nd grade teacher which I love. I have a wonderful family. My husband and I have been blessed with three children and one beautiful grand daughter. When I am not working in my classroom I am spending time with my family.

Education and Students

One of the most important goals in teaching is to make sure that I ensure that all of my students understand how their lessons will effect their lives. Many times I think students are confused as to what and why they are learning certain things. It is at that point I feel we lose them. I am hoping with the Keystone program, I am given more methods to be able to connect history with my students. It is a challenge that needs to be met and I am looking forward to having more tools to achieve my goal.

First time blogging

I have never done this before. I am hoping this is beneficial for my class.