Internet Field Trip: Fiction Illuminating the Past

• PRINT
• EMAIL

Over the years I've become more and more interested in using historical fiction in my teaching. However, I have discovered that not all historical fiction is the same. Some of the older works, I've found, can be rife with stereotypes and misinformation. So when looking for good historical fiction to use with my students I am careful to find out if it is accurate, well-researched, and devoid of stereotypes. Such books, I have discovered, excite my students and deepen their understandings during an historical study.

After a rich exploration of firsthand accounts during a study of the Pilgrims with my fourth graders, I read aloud Kathryn Lasky's Dear America: A Journey to the New World: The Diary of Remember Patience Whipple, Mayflower, 1620. This book, one from Scholastic's popular Dear America series, is a fictionalized diary by a young Pilgrim. Inspired by this book, my students did careful research, created their own imaginary Mayflower passengers, and wrote their own works of historical fiction.

For younger students, writer Deborah Hopkinson creates works rich in historical imagery. Deborah's Web site offers a wealth of material to aid teachers using books like Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt, Birdie's Lighthouse, and A Band of Angels.

For older students, Karen Cushman's award-winning books can enrich a multitude of historical studies. Catharine Called Birdy, for example, is a worthwhile addition to a Middle Ages unit. Visit the Catherine Called Birdy page of Carol Hurst's Children's Literature site for some great lesson ideas. An interview with Karen Cushman can give students more insight into her research and inspiration for this book and others.

The Right Story at the Right Time for Ages 5-6: Quick Click
Age-by-age guidelines for choosing the right books for your child. Find out what story themes your 5-6 year-old can understand and relate to now.

Reading Milestones: Signs of Progress in Your Emergent Reader
See signs of progress in your beginning reader. Identify key reading skills. Recognize reading milestones in phonics, spelling, writing, and more.

LESSON PLAN	Hot Air Lesson Plan I like to feature historically based picture books such as Hot Air as they become available. Marjorie Priceman, illustrator of Zin! Zin! Zin!...
UNIT PLAN	American Journeys: California Welcome to American Journeys: Learn About California-a dynamic educational program developed for fourth graders that encourages the use of language...
ONLINE ACTIVITY	Meet a Veterinarian Introduce early readers to the job of a veterinarian! Meet Dr. Fay Vittotoe, who describes her job using simple sentences read aloud.