Author Archives: openwidearchive

Ancient Greece

Posted on November 23, 2010 by openwidearchive

Ancient Greek civilization is an exciting and intriguing part of our history. The Ancient Greeks made many contributions to society from government and sports to architecture and literature. While students will never get to experience first hand the customs and … Continue reading →

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Carving Out a Name for Himself

Posted on November 23, 2010 by openwidearchive

George Washington Carver made a name for himself with peanuts. He is world-reknowned for having beaten the odds€”as an African-American in the post Civil War era in America in the late 1800s€”to become a scientist and successful inventor. He was director … Continue reading →

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Veterans Day

Posted on November 23, 2010 by openwidearchive

Veterans Day is a national holiday that recognizes and honors men and women who have served to protect America and its freedom.  Students in the third grade will learn the significance of this day and the implications of having a … Continue reading →

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Patrick Henry

Posted on November 22, 2010 by openwidearchive

Patrick Henry Patrick Henry was born in Hanover County, Virginia in 1736. He was a huge part of America's struggle from British rule to self-government.Patrick Henry was a lawyer, patriot, orator, and helped form every aspect of  founding of America. His most … Continue reading →

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Ancient Egypt

Posted on November 22, 2010 by openwidearchive

This post discusses resources for the second grade Virginia SOL 2.1. In this unit, students learn about the contributions that ancient Egypt has made to the modern world. Specifically, students study how Egypt helped to develop, and influenced, writing, architecture … Continue reading →

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Abraham Lincoln

Posted on November 22, 2010 by openwidearchive

The following resources are for teachers and students to refer to when exploring the life and times of our sixteenth president, Abraham Lincoln. The Virginia SOLs included are K.1(a), 1.2, 2.11, U.S. 11.3c, US1.9d. Abraham Lincoln Who Was Abraham Lincoln? … Continue reading →

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Teaching About Community in a Preschool Classroom

Posted on November 22, 2010 by openwidearchive

It can be difficult to explain what a community is to a preschool classroom.  Community helpers are often included in preschool themes, but the overall community is frequently overlooked.  Here are some great resources for teaching children about living in … Continue reading →

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Patriotic Symbols

Posted on November 20, 2010 by openwidearchive

 America the Beautiful: Patriotic Symbols Introduction This blog post provides several book reviews, websites that students can access, and additional teacher resources. The material that is found within the links provided can be used with grades ranging from kindergarten to … Continue reading →

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James Madison

Posted on November 17, 2010 by openwidearchive

James Madison, a Virginian, was the fourth president of the United States and is known as the “father of the Constitution.” James Madison University, located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is named after him. The resources listed below would be helpful for … Continue reading →

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The American Revolution

Posted on November 12, 2010 by openwidearchive

The resources listed below are great to use when teaching a unit on the Revolutionary War in social studies (VS.5, USI.6).  You will find appropriate literature for students related to the American Revolution, websites for students to explore as well … Continue reading →

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