Teaching Research-Based Writing through History

Delise Sanders of Sumner Schools presented at the 2008 National Council of History Education Annual Conference on the topic of integrating writing into history instruction. In addition to her focus on use of primary sources, she introduced methods for teaching intermediate-level students to research-based writing projects. Many of her ideas were shared during the session II slideshow. In addition, Sanders provided permission to share her project notes here. Called "The Big Fifth Grade Research Project," Sanders assists teachers to replicate her method of guiding students through the research and writing process.

Teaching Literacy through History

One of the resources I found particularly helpful in informing my knowledge of literacy integration into history instruction was Teaching Literacy through History (Elementary/Middle School Materials), a part of the "Educating America's Citizens" collection of the Teaching Resources from Colonial Williamsburg. Note that many of the ideas presented in the session II slideshow originated in the Williamsburg packet.

Teaching Literacy through Historical Children's Books (Video Slide Presentation)

Session II Class Slides

These slides are from the PowerPoint presentation delivered on April 9, 2007. The topic for the slides was "Teaching Literacy through Historical Children’s Books ."

Seesion I Class Slides

These slides are from the PowerPoint presentation delivered on October 22, 2008. The topic for the slides was "Teaching Reading through Historical Children’s Books."

Nevada Humanities

"Nevada Humanities is a nonprofit organization that creates and supports projects throughout the state of Nevada that broaden perspectives and encourage intellectual curiosity." One of the benefits the organization provides for history educators is their "Humanities on the Road Speaker's Bureau." This Bureau provides notification of available Chautauqua speakers within Nevada and support funds to bring presenters to schools.
Click here for a current list of available Chautauqua presenters.

Alternative Assessment

Suggestions for alternative assessment methods are available in Sandra Schurr's text titled The ABCs of Evaluation. Though this book is no longer in print, you may access an electronic copy here.