Category Archives: social studies

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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Teaching Map Skills

Posted on October 18, 2010 by openwidearchive

(VA Geography 2.5, 2.6) –    2.5  The student will develop map skills by: a) locating the equator, the seven continents, and the five oceans on maps and globes; b) locating selected rivers (James River, Mississppi River, Rio Grande, Huang He, and … Continue reading →

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Civil War

Posted on October 5, 2010 by openwidearchive

For this topic, students will be able to identify roles of major names such as Abraham Lincoln, Jefferson Davis, Ulysses S. Grant (USI.9). Students will also use maps to explain critical developments in the war including major battles.  They will … Continue reading →

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George Washington

Posted on October 4, 2010 by openwidearchive

Introduction: This topic introduces second and third graders to George Washington the First President of the United States.  Through a variety of children books student learn about the life of George Washington from childhood, to commander of the military, to … Continue reading →

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Economics: Needs and Wants

Posted on September 27, 2010 by openwidearchive

Everyone has wants.  However, students need to realize that people can not have everything they want.   Choices have to be made.  Some choices are made based on our basic needs, which include food, clothing, and shelter.  The following books are … Continue reading →

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Jackie Robinson

Posted on September 26, 2010 by openwidearchive

  As the first African-American player in the major leagues of baseball, Jackie’s actions helped to bring about other opportunities for African-Americans.  (SOL 2.11)  The resources given below will help a 2nd grade student learn about the life and times of Jackie … Continue reading →

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