Category Archives: social studies

Teaching Children about Ancient China

Posted on September 26, 2010 by openwidearchive

In second grade, students study ancient civilizations. One of these civilizations is ancient China. Students learn about the architecture, inventions, and written language of China (SOL 2.1). The resources provided below will activate background knowledge, support instruction, and capture student … Continue reading →

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Learning about Rosa Parks

Posted on September 26, 2010 by openwidearchive

On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks made history by simply and courageously refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger. During a time of public, educational, and social segregation, Rosa Parks was one of many who paved the … Continue reading →

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Teaching Ancient Greece

Posted on September 26, 2010 by openwidearchive

Introduction The Ancient Greeks were one of the two groups of people who made significant contribution to society in terms of architecture, government, and sports. The Ancient Greeks have influenced the lives of people today. Books that I chose start … Continue reading →

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Teaching History with Children’s Literature: Christopher Newport

Posted on September 26, 2010 by openwidearchive

  Captain Christopher Newport (1561-1617) was a major figure is the Virginia Company’s voyage to the New World and the establishment of England’s first permanent settlement there. Previously, Captain Newport was a successful sailor with Sir Frances Drake, seized fortunes … Continue reading →

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Teaching Economics Through Children’s Literature: Pennies for Elephants

Posted on May 14, 2010 by openwidearchive

  Pennies for Elephants written and illustrated by Lita Judge is a wonderful tale based on a true story of how the children of Boston came together to save three very special circus elephants.  A brother and sister duo unite … Continue reading →

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Teaching Economics with Children’s Literature: The Economy

Posted on April 19, 2010 by openwidearchive

The Economy written by Terence O’Hara gives an in-depth look at the economy of the United States and includes topics such as, free enterprise, the law of supply and demand, how businesses work, business cycles, and different types of economies … Continue reading →

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Teaching Economics with Children’s Literature: Estela’s Swap

Posted on April 19, 2010 by openwidearchive

Introduction and Summary Estela’s Swap written by Alexis O’Neill and illustrated by Enrique O. Sanchez,is about a young girl from Santa Ana named Estela. She is selling her music box at the Swap Meet for ten dollars so that she … Continue reading →

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Teaching Economics with Children’s Literature: Arthur’s Funny Money

Posted on April 17, 2010 by openwidearchive

Arthur’s Funny Money, written and illustrated by Lillian Hoban, is a story about Arthur and his younger sister Violet. Violet is learning her numbers and asks Arthur for some help figuring out a problem.  He promises to help her but … Continue reading →

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Teaching Economics with Children’s Literature: What is Money?

Posted on April 16, 2010 by openwidearchive

What is money? written by Mary Firestone and illustrated by Enoch Peterson is an easy to read book about why money is used, currencies of the world and how bills and coins are made.  If explains to us that without … Continue reading →

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Teaching Economics with Children’s Literature: The Story of Money

Posted on April 14, 2010 by openwidearchive

The Story of Money, written by Betsy Maestro and illustrated by Giulio Maestro, provides a thorough history of how simple pieces of paper eventually came to be the accepted means of payment around the world known as "money."  The book … Continue reading →

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