At the learning stations outlined in this article, children are taught to recognize biography as a literary form. The center is also intended to make history "come alive" for children and to reinforce their ability to distinguish between fact and fiction. (Author/SJL)

Examined effects of using textbook alternatives on six fifth graders' experiences learning about American history. Found that students preferred alternative texts. Using multiple sources raised no questions for students about validity and reliability of evidence. Students used an information-quantity criterion to judge validity of evidence. Three…

Critically reviews modern writings about American Indians, focusing on Indian romance novels, children's stories, biographies, works by "urban mixed-bloods," and the "art for art's sake" stance. Views non-Native works as irrelevant and most Native writings as self-centered or escapist. Calls for Native intellectuals to…

This is an annotated bibliography of biographies, historical fiction, contemporary stories, and discussion questions related to letter writing. A sidebar suggests an activity that involves reading a book about Ludwig van Beethoven, listening to Beethoven's music, and discussing letters in the story. (DGM)

Recommends using time bonding (finding a role model and researching the process and story behind that individual's accomplishments) as a means to interest students in history. Outlines the instructions covering the objectives of the writing assignments. Students researched a variety of biographies including Jackie Robinson and Lyndon Johnson. (MJP)

Focuses on the artist, Laquita Thomson, whose inspiration are the stars and space. Discusses her series called, "Celestial Happenings: Stars Fell on Alabama." Describes one event that inspired an art work when a meteor crashed into an Alabama home. Includes lessons for various subject areas. (CMK)

Provides background information on the career of Fred Webster in folk art, focusing on his use of religious stories in his work. Includes activities in subject areas such as language arts, history or religious studies, book arts, social studies, and natural science. (CMK)

Describes a unit for fifth- and sixth-grade students that helps develop critical thinking skills. Explains that students read the book, "Leonardo da Vinci" (Diane Stanley), to develop their historical interpretation skills and demonstrate that there is not just one right answer in history. (CMK)

Provides ways teachers can make U.S. history more meaningful for students. Suggests using family photographs; making family trees; planning activities that focus on commemorative celebrations; creating a time line; reading biographies; and collecting stamps. (GG)

Presents a biographical sketch of educator Agnes Snyder that includes her background, teaching and administrative experiences, philosophies of education and life, and samples of her poetry. (BB)

Historically documents the life and education of Mary Antin from her suffering as a victim of anti-semitism in Russia to her freedom and acceptance in America. Discusses her literary publications which document her development and self-discovery. Explores her experiences as a Jew in early twentieth-century America. (JS)

Presents a short biography of Helen Heffernan, who is remembered for her years of service in the California State Department of Education, during which she developed educational programs that significantly influenced public education at every level. Heffernan developed programs for rural education, progressive education, kindergarten and preschool…

Contends that quality children's literature becomes an increasingly important part of teaching. Presents a list of 24 recommended books, divided into primary, intermediate, advanced, and teacher reference categories. (CFR)

Presents a review of stories about and historical portrayals of Pocahontas, the Native American who saved John Smith in Colonial America. Indicates that prescripted roles for women and Native Americans have been variously applied to her. Argues that for all the interpretations, there is a dearth of works by Native Americans on the subject. (10…