Tag Archives: History

Why study history? A 3rd day of school lesson….

historical thinking, history, lesson plans, Megan Klassen, , , , , ,

Blogs this time of the year are full of wonderful ideas for the first day of school. I would like to share with you a lesson that I do on the 3rd or 4th day of school after all procedural things are taken care of.

I start off by brainstorming with the kids – asking the question “What don’t you like about history?” We write their answers on a flip chart.

Then I show them this awesome YouTube video by jhayesteach.  It highlights a small little speck of the amazingly cool things about history! Continue reading Why study history? A 3rd day of school lesson…. →

So I asked my eleven year old, “What is History?”

Brad Burenheide, historical thinking, history, ,

As I begin the transition from summer to fall semesters (I know it is way too soon!), I decided to think about how I can start my methods course.  I have my own set of ‘willing’ lab rats at home and I cornered my sixth grader and asked the question in the title of this post.  The reply was what I expected…  Continue reading So I asked my eleven year old, “What is History?” →

The 150th Anniversary of Gettysburg

As I will not be scheduled to post again prior to the actual anniversary, I felt it appropriate to blog about one of my favorite topics of study.  I still remember my high school history teacher describing the Battle of Gettysburg as the “-est” battle of the American Civil War.

Gettysburg_national_cemetery_img_4164-2

The “biggest,” the “bloodiest,” and had the “greatest impact” upon the history of America.  While this statement is contentious it is significant to remember this event for a variety of reasons that I think is important to make sure our students know about the battle, and the Civil War in general. Continue reading The 150th Anniversary of Gettysburg →