Are you looking for living books for ancient history for your homeschool? Here's a huge list!
I love using interactive lapbooks in the classroom. They are fun to create, engaging and can be used throughout the year to review skills taught. I finally completely my Lapbook Bundle and I am happy to share the lapbooks included with you. Whether you think your learners will enjoy creating all of the lapbooks, if you
This Australia Lapbook contains lots of fun and interesting elements as well as hands-on activity for children to learn about this unique country.
Complete Living Book List for Ancient History ~ Including: Creation, Greece, Rome, Israel, Dinosaurs, Geology, Africa
These wonderful living books for elementary grades are wonderful for young children to read on their own or for you to read to them!
The days of dioramas and book reports may be long gone. (Is it wrong that I’m a little sad about that?) Yet the expectation that students read and express their understanding of what they’ve read remains as strong as ever. So what’s a teacher to do? More specifically, what’s a creative teacher to do, when she doesn’t want to rely on worksheets? Get creative, of course! I’ve compiled 9 Fun Book Projects for you. They’re quick and easy to prepare, and best of all, they’re engaging – for both your students and you. No more slogging through piles of “Why I Liked This Book!” Take a look: Write a different ending -- What if the main character didn’t make it in the end? Or the dogs had lived? Or the culprit was the best friend? Your students’ imaginations can really wander with this assignment. Maybe their alternate ending will be even better than the original! Offer to let students draw their new ending as a bonus. Give a book talk --- Book talks are a wonderful way for students to demonstrate their understanding of books that they have read while practicing their writing and speaking skills. They're a great book project because they combine so many skills...and students love listening to one another. Oh, and the added bonus is that students can learn about books that they're interested in reading as they listen to the book talks. If you'd like to give them a try, then check out this FREE BOOK TALK GUIDE. It includes an overview of book talks, pre-write, final copy, and tips and tricks for presenting a book talk. Find it HERE. Write a sequel -- If you have the time, your students may want to extend their alternative endings into a whole second book (or at least a few pages or a chapter). After all, who hasn’t reached the end of a great read and wished for more? This will be a challenge, as students will have to build on the original plot lines and character outlines. Refer them to some famous book series for inspiration. Write a letter to the author -- Take a page from Beverly Cleary’s classic Dear Mr. Henshaw and have students write a thoughtful letter, with questions for the author of their current reading selection (or a favorite book). Most authors love to write (of course!) and appreciate opportunities to interact directly with their readers. Address letters (or e-mails) to the publisher, or see if the author has contact information on his or her website. It never hurts for students to practice their letter-writing and envelope-addressing skills, either – at least as long as snail mail is still around. Your students will be thrilled to get a response, too. Great news! I've put together three stationary templates that students can use when drafting their letters. They're a special FREEBIE just for you! Click here to check them out...and download them for free! Choose a response --- Here's an idea that students love...give them choices! It's amazing how giving students the ability to select the response or project that they would like to complete instantly increases their engagement. With that in mind, I created a series of "This or That" reading responses. Each This or That Reading Prompt includes instruction at the top of the worksheet and then 2 reading response choices for students to showcase their learning. After reviewing the choices, students can choose to do the "This" prompt or the "That" prompt. You can easily turn this into a book project by having students complete 5 (or so) different prompts while reading the book and submit them all as a final project when they finish reading the book. Learn more HERE. Set it to music -- Have your students capture a pivotal scene from the book in a song set to familiar music. It can be a ballad, a pop song, a rap – whatever speaks to them or best works with the scene. Encourage students who select this option to put on a concert. For students who are shy to perform, give them the option of recording their song privately, so you can play it without them having to get up in front of the class. Doodle it --- This is my FAVORITE type of book project! That's because it combines reflection, thinking and DOODLING! You can instantly take book reports and book projects to a whole new level with a Doodle Book Review! First, students complete a planning guide. Then, they design a Doodle Book Review! Check it out HERE! There's even this cinema-themed version that your students are sure to love. Find it HERE. Create a File Folder --- I first developed this book project idea many years ago as a summer reading project. Then, I altered it slightly so that it could be completed during anytime of the school year with any book. With this project, students compile critical information from the book they read including the plot, characters, setting, and a reflection in a manila file folder. The file folder book report includes detailed instructions so that students can complete it all independently. The end result is a compact project that students love! Oh, and you can store the file folders by your classroom library for students to reference when picking out a book! Find more details HERE. Blog about it -- If you have a classroom webpage, it can be fairly simple to create a live (and private) blog that students can use to discuss and debate the merits of their favorite books. This option might work best for students who have read the same book. Make sure you establish expectations for a civil online conversation. You can get in on the convo, too! Focusing on nonfiction in your classroom? Try one of these book report alternatives: Ø Create a scrapbook with images and facts about the book topic. Ø Write interview questions for the main character (if reading a biography, for example). Extend this assignment by allowing students to dress up as the character and record their responses to the interview questions. Ø Write a diary that one of the story’s main characters might have kept before, during, or after the book’s events. Make sure students emphasize what the character is thinking and feeling to give it an authentic feel. Ø Write a news story about the main event in the book (for example, the sinking of the Titanic). This is a good opportunity to practice this very specific form of writing. You’ll want to review inverted pyramid style and how to use quotes if you go this route. BONUS: Wait! I have one more idea. Here's a new spin on the classic book report mobile! Why not have students report out on the plot, setting, characters, and theme on fun pieces of paper clothing? Then students can hang their work from a hanger that says, "Try this book on for size!" This project includes a set of first draft materials and final copy elements so that students can create a high quality project! Here's some links for some of the project ideas above: ➧ File Folder Book Project (any book!) ➧ Doodle and Do Book Review (doodle book project) ➧ This or That Reading Response Prompts ➧ Book Talk (freebie) ➧ Letter to the Author Stationary Templates (FREE!) ➧ Clothes Hanger Book Report I hope that you've found some fun book project ideas to try in your classroom! Happy reading! Mary Beth
It's not everyday that our nation elects a new president. And although I am more than tired of hearing campaign ads and seeing yard signs, I am eager to exercise my right to cast a vote...a passion I hope to ignite into all of my children. I realize that the national "Kid's Vote" campaign has made significant strides in spreading the excitement to the next generation of voters, but it does very little to teach kids about the actual election process. So in keeping with my desire to incorporate real-life into learning, I have pushed "pause" on our current Egypt study to complete a mini-unit on voting...specifically voting for a new president. (This post contains affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for full details.) Resources that we used We used the following living literature style books: Know Your Government: Governor by Jacqueline Laks Gorman Know Your Government: Mayor by Jacqueline Laks Gorman Chickens May Not Cross the Road and Other Crazy (But True) Laws by Kathi Linz The Taxing Case of the Cows: A True Story About Suffrage by Iris Van Rynbach If I Were President by Catherine Stier Duck for President by Doreen Cronin Voting and Elections by Patricia Murphy We watched a youtube video on what the very first election process was like. I also gleaned inspiration from several great on-line resources which I have compiled on my Government Pinterest board. Election Process in Practice In an effort to clearly explain the election process, I decided to host a 2012 Family Dinner-Time Election. I joined forces with the Announcer's Wife to put together both a PRIMARY and a GENERAL election to elect the dinner to be served on election night. Our family was one political party and her family was the opposing party. I began by allowing each of my four older kids to pick a dinner-time candidate...a main dish that they enjoy. After looking at a few campaign ads and posters we had received in the mail, they were each instructed to make a campaign poster for their nominee. When the Hubs arrived home for lunch in the afternoon, we spent some time conducting a "town hall meeting" or simple debate. The children were each given a chance to explain why their dinner candidate was the best choice and why the others were not. I explained that voters take many factors into consideration when determining their vote. The Hubs and I (as the audience) asked questions and pointed out key "considerations"...like the fact that we might not have the ingredients for that particular item, the Announcer's family is mostly gluten free, mom has a meeting to get to on election night and might not have a lot of time to cook a huge time-consuming meal, etc. They all did a fantastic job responding to our concerns just as a real presidential nominee would do. Next came the voting. I made up simple "official ballots", set up a voting station, and invited the family to cast their vote for the PRIMARIES. The votes were counted and WAFFLES came in with a commanding lead. I then explained that we would need to choose a "running mate" for our candidate. We discussed how a presidential and vice-presidential combination was much like a dad and mom partnership. Dad is in charge, but Mom is second-in-command and is a helper to Dad. Just as Mom has many strengths that compliment Dad's, a Vice-Presidential nominee is chosen because his/her strengths will compliment that of the Presidential candidate. We all agreed that FRUIT would make a nice "running mate." In a humorous twist, the Announcer's family elected PANCAKES and BACON to represent their political party in the general elections. Our two families will be meeting together the Tuesday of the national elections to conduct our own general election. I have made up simple ballots for both readers and non-readers alike. The votes will be cast and tabulated. Later that evening, I will be serving up the winning combination at the dinner table. Who knows which dinner-time combo will win in this Battle of the Breakfast Foods. Right now, it's too close to tell.
Cute, free printable parts of a plant flip book is such a fun way for kids to learn about the different parts of a flower for science.
For a house that speaks volumes, make clever and thrifty use of words with these tips from Country Living.
Unlock the power of the past with this comprehensive biography brochure! This high-quality resource is a fun way for your students to research famous people. This brochure is a reusable and editable template, and students can add pictures and text either on the computer or by hand. Your students wil...
As Spring Break approaches, I find that my fifth graders are in need of some reminders as to what it means to be kind to each other. In general, they are sweet kids, but at times the words they use and actions they take, particularly on the playground, aren't the kindest. Our read aloud for the month is Wonder by RJ Palacio so the theme of kindness fit right into our room. It just so happens that a new book, We're All Wonders by RJ Palacio, a picture book intended for younger readers to access the story, came out this week as well. So the timing was perfect. (the two links above are my affiliate links and will take you to Amazon to buy the books.) I began by asking the students what kindness is. We brainstormed a list of ideas and created an anchor chart. Then I read the picture book to the students. Because we had just finished Wonder, they were so excited to read this new version. When we finished, I asked the kids to think of all the ways, in both the picture book and the novel, that people were not very kind to Auggie (the main character). The kids were able to fill our entire circle map in no time. It was easy to recall how people would scream in his face, recoiling at the way he looked. They remembered the names Auggie was called and the no-touching game that was played. The instantly told me about all the awful things that happened to him. I then asked the kids to brainstorm ways that, if they were in the novel with Auggie, they could be kinder to him. Again, they had no problem thinking of ways they could be kind to Auggie. Next, I asked the students to think about their own real life. I asked them to reflect upon how they personally treat others and how they personally could make better choices when speaking to others. Here is where things got a little challenging. You see, when students are talking about fictional characters, or reading news stories about OTHER kids they don't know being treated unfairly or unkindly, they know exactly what they would do if they were there. Because they aren't there. They know they never will be there. But when confronted with their own lives, and real possibilities for what they would have to do to step in or change situations, it is a bit harder for them. So I asked them to brainstorm 15 different ways they PERSONALLY could show kindness to our classmates. (I drew a lot of inspiration for this next part from Study All Knight's FREE Kindness unit, which you can grab here.) The students then used tempra paint and painted 15 (or so) rainbow sunshine rays. They also drew their own Wonder-Inspired portrait. (I have previously done this before, but had them focus on precepts and writing....if you would like to do that, click here. It is one of my fav lessons too!) The students then glued their Wonder portraits into the middle of the rays, used Sharpie to outline and write the 15 ways they could show real kindness in their lives (one way per ray) and were done. They came out amazing. (See the picture at the top of the post!) What is better though, is that the past two days, my students are actively trying to be kinder to each other. They are watching their words. I have seen people purposefully go up to those who tend to wander during group time and invite them into the group. I have seen students smile at others just a bit more. It truly has been a Wonder. Right now, for a limited time, Amazon has the book available for $3.99!!! Snag up to 4 copies at that price. Use my affiliate link here to get your copy ASAP before they are all gone!! SaveSave
Inside you’ll find: picture books about composers, full of living ideas perfect for a Charlotte Mason picture study. Have you ever met a person that hated all types of music? Yeah, me either. Unfortunately, I know far too many people that don’t appreciate classical music. Maybe because they weren’t exposed to it at a young [...]
Turn books into creative art with our book folding patterns. From Batman to clouds, find endless book folding inspiration with Gathered.
G'day mate! These children's books about Australia are perfect for an Australia unit study.
Using Living Books for History - How we use living books for an engaging and memorable Charlotte Mason way to learn history!
On this page, you will find 20 original Earth coloring pages that are all free to print and download! When I was teaching first and second grade in elementary school, lessons on the Earth were always eagerly awaited! Children were always so fascinated about this living planet that we exist on.
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Must Read books for everyone ~ You Should Read These Even if You Aren’t Into Reading
Easy Ways to Teach Montessori Culture with Free Printables, Continent Boxes, Multicultural Books and Activities including Zoology, Science, Botany, Geography, History, Art and Music
Hi! I’m here today to share with you a meaningful art project for your younger students. This would be good as as a “getting to know you” activity. The following examples were all made by kindergartners near the end of the year, but I would think this lesson would be suitable for kids through grades 2. Many art teachers have taught about the artist Faith Ringgold and had their students create paper quilts. I have a free printable for you … Read more... →
A Catholic Saints Coloring Book is an EASY way for kids to learn about the lives of the Saints.
Need some adorable sims 4 cottagecore cc to go along with your cottage living adventures? Here's everything you need to live out your cottagecore fantasies.
A fabulous collection of Ernst Haeckel prints, both in colour and monochrome. These 20th-century marine life illustrations are works of art.
Are you searching for engaging and educational resources to teach your students about geography and spatial awareness? Look no further! Our Me On the Map worksheets provide an excellent way to introduce young learners to the concept of their place in the world. These worksheets focus on the entity and subject of personal geography, allowing students to explore and understand their position in relation to their home, neighborhood, city, and country. With clear instructions and thought-provoking activities, our Me On the Map worksheets are perfect for teachers and parents who want to help children gain a deeper understanding of their surroundings.
It’s summer and the bugs are out so let’s draw them with illustrator Yuval Zommer
This list of character-building chapter books for boys is full of titles that will keep all ages asking for "one more chapter!"
When teach art, I use the immersive Charlotte-Mason approach which includes living books, narration, copywork, and creative expression. Here's how.
These life cycle of an ant printables and worksheets are perfect for an ant unit study when learning about ants and their life cycle!
All About Authors: Leo Lionni. Book list, activities, biographical information, and resources for this 4-time Caldecott recipient, best known for Frederick and Little Blue and Little Yellow.
She looked up, all she saw was black. The sky seemed to have no light. No will to live as the Sun's shadow. She felt her breath leave her lungs as she felt as an exoskeleton. Nothing inside, only an empty heart. She hoped it would change. That she wouldn't be the omega they said she was. She closed her eyes and took one little step. ALRIGHT SO I AM EXCITED TO WRITE THIS.
Lap books are very popular among homeschoolers. We've really enjoyed BookShark's American History lap books. Find out what sets them apart from others.
The Best Random Acts of Kindness Ideas, you'll find over 200 Acts of Kindness Ideas That Will Inspire You, Kindness printables, Simple Acts of Kindness, Kindness ideas for Kids, Ideas for Random Acts of Kindness, Plus, over 100 Examples of Random Acts of Kindness, Kindness Ideas
These living books for preschool are the best books to read aloud to your early learners. Use this living books list to plan your homeschool!
No matter where you are currently in your journey, this list of 10 essential Science of Reading books will help further your learning.
These free printable sketchbook ideas and printable drawing prompts are perfect for your technology loving kid or teen. Print and go!
Are you drowning in children's artwork? Don't hold on to that stack of paper and supplies forever. Instead, photograph it and turn it into a handsome photographic art journal.
I am a dog lover and aim to always live an artful life. I need decor in my new apartment. These might be just perfect for me.via is for the cute, clever and connected*
Alternative Photography: Anthotype & Cyanotype: Anthotypes and cyanotypes are both ways of printing an image onto a piece of paper using light. Objects or a negative are used to block light from hitting certain areas of a piece of paper coated with a light-sensitive chemical. The light causes a c…
I've been using a wall easel system for a few years, and I love it! There are two basic options for hanging paintings: either screws, or pegs. Using screws is a little easier, with less work upfront, but you have to use a screwdriver to move them around. Pegs are easier to move around, but require more work to build.
A variety of "all about me" free printables and activities. These are great for homeschools and classrooms for toddlers, preschoolers, or older children!
Last week I finished photographing around three years worth of artwork and the resulting images are all now stored nice and neat on my hard drive. Whilst this is great as it means it is all backed up - and out of the w
When kids learn about famous artists in picture books and narrative nonfiction stories, it helps readers remember the famous artists in a deeper way. Why? Because stories help us remember information, giving the artists a place in our background knowledge attached to a story.
Books about Birds for Preschool that will delight your young ones!
