While reading chapters one and two of "The Everything American History Book" I came to the conlcusion that there are many specific facts that I was uncertain about until I read chapters one and two. I enjoyed reading the first two chapters because it helped me review the important facts that are crucial for teachers to know when they are infront of a class. In many circumstances, you are asked to look at certain topics throughout history into depth, and you do not have to necessarily look at the surface or the basic facts pertaining to a certain topic. Of course in history it is very important to be able to understand topics and the meaning behind them, but I feel like you can not fully do that without understanding the basic facts first. "The Everything American History Book" enables you to receive specific facts that are very important without giving a certain perspective related with the topic which can also help us because it can make us think about the topic in a way that we would like to view it. One aspect of the book that I also enjoyed was the Top Ten Fun Facts about America located before the introduction. I thought the facts were very interesting, although I did know a few already, but I also thought that students would enjoy the "fun facts" and it could help them to become motivated to learn more, and it could help them realize that history can be a lot of fun.
In response to Jess's comment, I must say that I to enjoyed reading the first two chapters of this text. There were many facts that rose my personal interest along with the E Stats found throughout the chapters as well. When I first started reading the text, I honestly thought that it was going to be a "child-like" reading, but in fact, it turned out to be the complete opposite. There were many "basic facts" as Jess has called them, that many of us never really think about. Yes, we are taught majority of this information throughout our years of education, but when it comes down to it, how much do we really know? When reading through the first two chapters the one thing that stood out to me the most was the statement made by J.H. Parry. "Columbus did not discover a new world; he established contact between two worlds, both already old" (pg 10). I just found this very interesting because Columbus discovering what was then called the "New World" may have not been so "new" afterall. After reading the first two chapters, it is amazing for me personally to read about all the facts that we don't really think about unless it is required of us to think about it. This text truly stands up to its title of being "The Everything American History Book" and I would definitely use this book for instruction in a future classroom.
I definitely like the "Top Ten Fun Facts About America" The beginning of the book can definitely set the tone. This book gave the impression that it would be a fun and interesting read. It caught my attention and grabbed my interest. I'm sure it would do the same for younger children. I also liked the way that the book was broken up into smaller topics within the chapters. Reading pages and pages of information under one subtitle can be boring even for me as well as elementary students. The separated topics help students to stop and maybe think about what they just learned before continuing on. I also liked how they stuck little statistics, questions and facts. into the chapter. This is another good way to keep the reader focused and interested. I think the book was very clear. Students can get a lot of important facts from this book. Being that this book tries to cover all of the history of our nation, it does not seem to go too in depth into anyone subject. This will allow teachers to cover everything at a basic level. They can also add supplemental information to the areas that they feel are most important. During this reading, I learned some new things and was reminded of things I had forgotten.
In response to Candice's comment I also like how they have the book split up into little sections and not long dragged out pages! Although it does not go into great detail on each topic, it gets to the point and does allow the teacher to have something to work with. You need all the basic facts to be able to expand and that is what this book provides to the reader. I really like how the book as the Facts and Questions spread through each section because it really helps you expand on the reading. The facts are great because it gives extra information and the question able you to put what you have read to work!
In response to Kelly's comment, I found that the Facts and Questions were also very helpful. They really help you to be able to reenforce what you have read. It also is a good way for the teacher to be able to keep track of what is being read by incorporating the questions from the chapters into the lesson. I really like how the book is set up, it is not like most textbooks which is loaded with information,vocabulary words and excess information it really gives you what you need to know and is very well layed out, that way while you are reading its quick and to the point and you do not get bored or lost within the text.
This book is so great and I had actually purchased and started reading it before I knew that we needed it! It really simplifies history and lays it out in a format which really makes it easy to learn and recall.
My Favorite parts of the book are the E Stats and E Facts. Both sections give you important facts and interesting pieces of information and highlights them. As teachers we will want to bring those fun facts into the classroom to spice up lessons that may not be very exciting. All in all I am truly looking forward to continuing on in this book!
In response to Kelly's post, the fact that the chapters are broken down as they are really helps me to get through them and to understand them. It is not like they are throwing loads of information at us in each chapter. They take it nice and slow making it an easy read!
I agree with what Ashley said about this book. I usually have a lot of trouble with social studies. The texts books are usually so dense and i start to lose interest, but with this book it is simplified in order for ou to learn the important facts which I really like. Just like Jess said the fun facts in the book are interesting little things to know and the way it is broken down helps me remember and learn easier than just reading paragraph after paragraph like in a regular text book.
I agree with what everyone else has said about the book. I enjoyed reading the chapters and felt that it was not too much at one time. In the past the history books that I have read have been full of so much information that it became very hard to retain what I was reading. The E-facts and stats were also very interesting. With social studies I think that it is important to give small amounts of information at a time considering there is so much information to give.
After reading Chapter One in "The Everything American History Book", I was able to review many facts that I haven't learned about in a while. I found this chapter very good because it is laid out in a way that makes it easy to understand. Similar to what many other people have already stated, I enjoyed how the chapter is broken up in sub-titles because it helps me understand the main ideas of each section. It was interesting to learn about Early European contact and how the first Americans arrived. I also liked learning how the Mayans developed a 365 day calendar which is still used to this day. The "Top Ten Fun Facts about America" were interesting because they were fun and interesting to read.
After reading chapter one in "The Everything American History Book", I was able to remember facts and learn new information about history. This chapter was very enjoyable to read, I liked how each topic was broken down with its own information. Reading page after page can get boring and you begin to loose interest, this book has just the right amount of information. It gets right to the basic point. I enjoyed reading E-facts and stats because it allowed the reading to be broken up also it was interesting and fun to read. “Top Ten Fun Facts about America” was interesting because they were fun but it still allows the students and the teachers to stay focused but still be educated.
Reading Chapters 1 & 2 really refreshed my memory about things I learned a while ago. The chapters are easy to read and understand, which is obviously great. The information included is the most important and the book really gets to the main points. I like the different features including E facts, E Essentials, E Stats and E Questions. Also, in just 7 pages of the first chapter, the book is able to discuss everything we need to know about the Pre-Columbian Americas. In 8 pages, we learn all about the New World. Jess, along with many others, loved the "Top Ten Fun Facts About America" and thought they were great. I agree and feel things such as fun facts can really motivate children to learn something interesting, no matter what the subject may be. I know this book will be a constant source of reference for me and will help a great deal in teaching my future students.
In reading chapters One and Two i found it very interesting to read inforamtion that I have either forgot or that I do not have a recollection of learning. I think as beocmong a future teacher i this book is a very useful tool that we can use as techers to beother teach social studies in a foraml or fun way. i this this book is very easy toread and the inforamtion is very important for my future students and for me to learn as a future teacher. I think students really need to be interested insocial studeies, but i think with using this book it can really help techers brign there students in to help them get intersted in socail studies.
The Everything American History Book is a great book for both students and teachers to read. The chapters are almost in the form of a time line which I feel is a great way to learn history. Cause and effect is an important aspect of history and a great reason to study history. Studying the causes of certain things could possibly help to prevent future bad events. When learning things in order it helps you to remember the information better as well. I think it is great for a teacher to read because it helps to lay out all the major topics and events. I like how the chapters were not drawn out with too much information. I think this is important when trying to keep the student's attention. The questions in the chapters were also a great way of getting the students to think outside the box and really become involved with the lesson. In response to Melissa's posting I also liked the "E" and "Top Ten" facts. I feel as if they are a fun interesting way to break up the lesson and keep the children thinking. These facts may even spark the children's interest into wanting to research more information on their own.
While reading chapter 1, I found the layout of the chapter very helpful. Like most everyone else mentioned, the breakdown with subtitles made the reading very easy. It is often difficult to read paragraph after paragraph in textbooks because eventually I lose track of what I am reading about. In the case of the "everything American History Book," the titles help to keep my focus. On a Historical note, I found the information in chapter 1 quite interesting, mainly the reason being is that I had never really learned history dating that far back. I remember Christopher Columbus and everything after the discovery of America through him, but I cannot recall every discussing the first European contacts. The forensic evidence connecting North American and Siberia peoples was also very interesting and new to me.
In response to chapter 1, I have re-collected my thoughts on the Pre-Columbian Americas. There were some things that I knew and some I was not familiar with. When reading the E stats and facts it really helped me gain more knowledge and understanding while reading the chapters. It was good to touch upon the civilizations of the Aztecs, the Maya, and the Incas. This brought my attention to focus on how no matter what or who... there is a form of communication people use to understand things. This book really interests me because it is light duty reading and is more clear to understand when it is broken down into topics, I also get a better understanding of just the basic facts. When I have to read "The Everything American History Book" I honestly cant wait to read it because it gets right to the point.
After reading the first two chapters in The Everything American History Book, I have found it easy to read, quick and informative. I found it very interesting that the Bering Strait land bridge once connected northern Asia and Alaska. Since 1992, the ocean levels have been rising at a rate of one-eighth inch each year due to global warming. I also read how in the Aztec empire, cacao bean which is used in chocolate and cocoa butter, was also usaed as currency in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. I learned most Native Americans died due to diseases such as small pox. Finally, I also learned how Columbus died in 1506 still thinking he had reached Asia on his journeys. Like many other people that commented above me, I found the book to be easy to read and broke down the important facts for us to be able to learn and one day teach.
After reading chapters one and two, I refreshed my memmory on many things that i havent thought about in a long time and also learned some new things. This book is a good way to take complex material and simplify it. The facts also a good way to reinforce what you want to teach. I agree with everyone when they say that it is unlife most text books that are trying to put vocabulary and excess information. It is a good way to refresh yourself on waht you want to teach in a way that the children in your classroom will understand.
I feel that this book is a great book to have... It is not like most texted where the reading are dry and boring. This book gives the reader a better understand about the reading. I feel this book would be a great asset in the classroom, from the fun facts to the essential information.
In response to chapter 2, I had always thought we were taught that Columbus had discovered the new world- but in reality as stated in the book, he did not discover a new work rather he established a connection between two old worlds. The entire time Columbus was sailing around every time he came across a peice of land he had insisted that in some way it was connected to or part of Asia, he died in 1506 still thinking he had reached and discovered a new world, Asia.
In response to Chapter 2,I agree with Kelly and found it interesting to read that Columbus died still thinking that he had reached Asia. Europeans settlers that came to America brought with them diseases like smallpox, whooping cough and measles that Native Americans had no resistance to. I found it disheartening to read how "diseases brought to the Caribbean by the Europeans contributed to the deaths of more than 3 million Native Americans between 1494 and 1508.
Reading about Christopher Columbus in chapter 2 brought back a lot of facts and names that I havent heard in a long time. Reading about the "Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria" reminded me of all the fun activities and songs there are related to the Holiday. I thought it was very interesting to read the fun fact that mentioned Christopher Columbus is one of only 2 national holidays that honors only one person.
In response to Kelly and Trish, I also think it was interesting that Columbus died before realizing he didnt really discove Asia.
The advancement, scientific knowledge and the generosity of the Aztec, Maya and Incas Indians are very interesting. As a teacher I would get the students motivated and asking questions. We would investigate how three civilizations were distroyed for one civilization the European to survive and be prosperous.
While reading this chapter, it brought back a lot of memories of events I read about a long time ago. It also reaffirmed what I always believe that Christopher Columbus did not discover America; they were indigenous people already in all these places he claimed to have discovered. I always thought that the Spaniards conquistadors stole from the indigenous people and gave them very little in return. They destroyed the Incas and Aztecs indigenous civilizations followed by the Mayas. These indigenous civilizations were very intelligent people. The Aztecs introduced the counting system using pictographs. The Maya developed the calendar system while the Incas were the first to performed medical surgeries and used herbal remedies to treat different illnesses.
Chapter 2
In this chapter credit is given to Christopher Columbus for finding the “New world”. Columbus sailed again in search of Asia. This time he sailed in three ships; Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria. As already stated the Americas were always there but Columbus made the claim. Is just like when the seaman from the ‘Pinta” first saw land and Columbus claimed that he first saw it so the Queen would pay him the yearly pension instead of the actual seaman that first saw land. I’m reliving Columbus journey and still amazed that every time I read I find some new information. Columbus miscalculated and thought he found Asia when he was in the Caribbean. The Santa Maria sank, and the survivors were left and they created the first colony of European settlers. These people had to live among the different Indian tribes and learn from them to be able to survive. What a surprised the Indian tribes shared their food and knowledge with these Europeans and in returned they got sickness and diseases from them. Many Native Americans died from smallpox, whooping cough and measles. One would believe that they were really trying to wipe out the Native American and as we see in history today they’re almost extinct.
After reading the first few chapters in the text I can say it provided a much needed "refresher" on many of the early events in the history of our country. Also although never mentioning it I thought of the importance of understanding where a specific historic source came from. When teaching history especially it is important to know where the information is coming from. Different people have different points of view. Typically we try and seek out as many primary sources as possible because they are coming directly from a person living in the time being studied. The information on Columbus in the opening chapters is obviously important to our history, but whenever possible it is necessary to think about another point of view such as the Native Americans in that example.
Ingrid said..... while reading anthony's comments, I have to agree with what he said about history. It's important to know where the information is coming from and take other point of view into account. Referring to Columbus, yes we should keep an open mind in relation to his "discoveries" but not forget the point of view of the Native Americans.
I agree with what Ingrid said that Christopher Columbus did not discover the world. According to chapter 1 when he and his sailors got there they met the native Indians.
deanne said.... according to Natassia M. I also feel that "the Everything American History book" is a well written book. I believe tht it was written for teachers to utilize in classrooms so students will have a clear comprehension of American History.
I love history so much I tivo shows form the history channel. Any history class is a passage to a deeper understanding of what people were doing the days before our very existence. That aspect is fascinating because a lot of times you find the history does in fact repeat itself. Top ten fun facts was actually fun. I would love to hear what the pronunciation for Lake Chargoggagoggmanchuggauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg. I also challenge someone to say it three consecutive times without butchering it. I want to know though was has Christopher Columbus done to some of you? I know the man is not perfect but I don’t understand why he gets under the skin of so many people. I know he did not discovery America. I know he was not pleasant to the natives in the Americas. I know two Vikings found a passage or connection the new world. I know he incorrectly name the inhabitant Indians thinking he was in India. Maybe he doesn’t deserve a holiday but could we give him credit? Many people during that time still thought the world was flat. He was brave enough to even propose a trip across the Atlantic. How important was it for our history. Think about it? I don’t think he expected this kind of backlash when he set out on this historical trip. He changed history by reintroducing the two worlds. I know someone else would have introduced us to the connection of the worlds but the fact is it was Christopher Columbus.
In response to Ashley comment, I find the Fun facts stimulates my brain in a fun way. It's fast and interesting data that you can bring up during a dinner party and sound smart. I can't wait for my next suit and tie sophisticated party!
deanne said... The question still remains did Columbus really discover the new world? Columbus thought that the earth was round. Instead of going south along the coast of Africa, up north to the pacific and Indian ocean into Asia, he went south west into the Atlantic Ocean. and thought that it was Asia. I agree with Kelly columbus did not discover a new world. I also believed that he made the connection between the old and new world.
In response to Freddy's comment, I do believe that Columbus is a unique historical figure in that he does "get under the skin of many people". Like you said he should be acknowledged for having the courage to challenge many of the ideas of the time by accepting the world was round and setting out for his journey. I think he gets under people's skin because many of us were taught the "glorified" version of his expedition only later on finding out the kind of man he really way and the brutality he brought upon the Native Americans.
deanne said... Chapter 8 The information I acquired from reading "The Everything American History Book" has left a lasting impression on me with regards to Abraham Lincoln and what he achieved. I must admit I was clueless about most of the information in the book. Abraham Lincoln was multitalented. He worked in the forest, attended log cabin school, he was a state legislator, a ferry boat captain, a postmaster, a lawyer and ultimately the 16th president of the United States. Abraham Lincoln had a thirsr for knowledge. Although very young he read books about "George Washington"; the first president of the United States. Lincoln was against slavery; in fact he did not support the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1954, which gave territories total control and decisions related to slavery. As a fourth grade teacher I would develop lessons which would involve activities utilizing the internet. The students would searched the web for information on Lincoln. We would explore his childhood into adult years, his years as president and years after his presidency. The children would recognize that Lincoln was an outstanding historical figure and president.
In response to Freddy's comment, I believe that Christopher Columbus brought detruction to an entire civilization. The only credit he should get is for being responsible for the death and dissparearance of a culture. His people did so many terrible things to the Indias; they brought diseases, rape the women, made them slaves, took their land and gold, not to mention imposing a culture that they did not understand. When we celebrate Christopher Columbus Day, we are honoring all the crimes that they Spanish committed against these people. If that is the case, let's celebrate, George W. Bush Day.
Ever since I was young, I have always being fascinating with the history of the development of the early civilizations. The Mayas, Incas and Aztecas, contributed to the enhancement of many societies and the development of architecture. Some of the crafts and the piramids that they built are still preserved. Many things have been said about how they were able to built such structures. Some people say that aliens from other planets helped them, because of the height and the size of the bricks that they used. Other people say that it remains a mistery they type of technology that they used to built such structures. Spain is responsible for the dissapearance of many civilizations, and the death and destruction of its people. I wonder, why do we celebrate Columbus Day if he did nothing but killing, stealing and destroyed. He did not discover America; when he arrived in America, America was already habitat by Indian tribes. Supported by the crown, he made them slaves, rape their women, spreaded diseases, killed thousands of Indians, stole their gold and took over their land. Yet, we honor him. The only contribution me made was proving that the earth was round, not flat.
This blog will be utilized by several classes for the purpose of responding to the readings assigned in class. Blogging is a way to make connections and create learning communities. This forum will be a place where we should feel free to express ideas and opinions in a thoughful and reflective manner. We look forward to reading your insightful comments.
40 comments:
While reading chapters one and two of "The Everything American History Book" I came to the conlcusion that there are many specific facts that I was uncertain about until I read chapters one and two. I enjoyed reading the first two chapters because it helped me review the important facts that are crucial for teachers to know when they are infront of a class. In many circumstances, you are asked to look at certain topics throughout history into depth, and you do not have to necessarily look at the surface or the basic facts pertaining to a certain topic. Of course in history it is very important to be able to understand topics and the meaning behind them, but I feel like you can not fully do that without understanding the basic facts first.
"The Everything American History Book" enables you to receive specific facts that are very important without giving a certain perspective related with the topic which can also help us because it can make us think about the topic in a way that we would like to view it.
One aspect of the book that I also enjoyed was the Top Ten Fun Facts about America located before the introduction. I thought the facts were very interesting, although I did know a few already, but I also thought that students would enjoy the "fun facts" and it could help them to become motivated to learn more, and it could help them realize that history can be a lot of fun.
In response to Jess's comment, I must say that I to enjoyed reading the first two chapters of this text. There were many facts that rose my personal interest along with the E Stats found throughout the chapters as well. When I first started reading the text, I honestly thought that it was going to be a "child-like" reading, but in fact, it turned out to be the complete opposite. There were many "basic facts" as Jess has called them, that many of us never really think about. Yes, we are taught majority of this information throughout our years of education, but when it comes down to it, how much do we really know?
When reading through the first two chapters the one thing that stood out to me the most was the statement made by J.H. Parry. "Columbus did not discover a new world; he established contact between two worlds, both already old" (pg 10). I just found this very interesting because Columbus discovering what was then called the "New World" may have not been so "new" afterall.
After reading the first two chapters, it is amazing for me personally to read about all the facts that we don't really think about unless it is required of us to think about it.
This text truly stands up to its title of being "The Everything American History Book" and I would definitely use this book for instruction in a future classroom.
I definitely like the "Top Ten Fun Facts About America" The beginning of the book can definitely set the tone. This book gave the impression that it would be a fun and interesting read. It caught my attention and grabbed my interest. I'm sure it would do the same for younger children.
I also liked the way that the book was broken up into smaller topics within the chapters. Reading pages and pages of information under one subtitle can be boring even for me as well as elementary students. The separated topics help students to stop and maybe think about what they just learned before continuing on.
I also liked how they stuck little statistics, questions and facts. into the chapter. This is another good way to keep the reader focused and interested. I think the book was very clear. Students can get a lot of important facts from this book. Being that this book tries to cover all of the history of our nation, it does not seem to go too in depth into anyone subject. This will allow teachers to cover everything at a basic level. They can also add supplemental information to the areas that they feel are most important.
During this reading, I learned some new things and was reminded of things I had forgotten.
In response to Candice's comment I also like how they have the book split up into little sections and not long dragged out pages! Although it does not go into great detail on each topic, it gets to the point and does allow the teacher to have something to work with. You need all the basic facts to be able to expand and that is what this book provides to the reader.
I really like how the book as the Facts and Questions spread through each section because it really helps you expand on the reading. The facts are great because it gives extra information and the question able you to put what you have read to work!
In response to Kelly's comment, I found that the Facts and Questions were also very helpful. They really help you to be able to reenforce what you have read. It also is a good way for the teacher to be able to keep track of what is being read by incorporating the questions from the chapters into the lesson.
I really like how the book is set up, it is not like most textbooks which is loaded with information,vocabulary words and excess information it really gives you what you need to know and is very well layed out, that way while you are reading its quick and to the point and you do not get bored or lost within the text.
This book is so great and I had actually purchased and started reading it before I knew that we needed it! It really simplifies history and lays it out in a format which really makes it easy to learn and recall.
My Favorite parts of the book are the E Stats and E Facts. Both sections give you important facts and interesting pieces of information and highlights them. As teachers we will want to bring those fun facts into the classroom to spice up lessons that may not be very exciting. All in all I am truly looking forward to continuing on in this book!
In response to Kelly's post, the fact that the chapters are broken down as they are really helps me to get through them and to understand them. It is not like they are throwing loads of information at us in each chapter. They take it nice and slow making it an easy read!
I agree with what Ashley said about this book. I usually have a lot of trouble with social studies. The texts books are usually so dense and i start to lose interest, but with this book it is simplified in order for ou to learn the important facts which I really like. Just like Jess said the fun facts in the book are interesting little things to know and the way it is broken down helps me remember and learn easier than just reading paragraph after paragraph like in a regular text book.
I agree with what everyone else has said about the book. I enjoyed reading the chapters and felt that it was not too much at one time. In the past the history books that I have read have been full of so much information that it became very hard to retain what I was reading. The E-facts and stats were also very interesting. With social studies I think that it is important to give small amounts of information at a time considering there is so much information to give.
After reading Chapter One in "The Everything American History Book", I was able to review many facts that I haven't learned about in a while. I found this chapter very good because it is laid out in a way that makes it easy to understand. Similar to what many other people have already stated, I enjoyed how the chapter is broken up in sub-titles because it helps me understand the main ideas of each section.
It was interesting to learn about Early European contact and how the first Americans arrived. I also liked learning how the Mayans developed a 365 day calendar which is still used to this day. The "Top Ten Fun Facts about America" were interesting because they were fun and interesting to read.
After reading chapter one in "The Everything American History Book", I was able to remember facts and learn new information about history. This chapter was very enjoyable to read, I liked how each topic was broken down with its own information. Reading page after page can get boring and you begin to loose interest, this book has just the right amount of information. It gets right to the basic point. I enjoyed reading E-facts and stats because it allowed the reading to be broken up also it was interesting and fun to read. “Top Ten Fun Facts about America” was interesting because they were fun but it still allows the students and the teachers to stay focused but still be educated.
Reading Chapters 1 & 2 really refreshed my memory about things I learned a while ago. The chapters are easy to read and understand, which is obviously great. The information included is the most important and the book really gets to the main points. I like the different features including E facts, E Essentials, E Stats and E Questions. Also, in just 7 pages of the first chapter, the book is able to discuss everything we need to know about the Pre-Columbian Americas. In 8 pages, we learn all about the New World. Jess, along with many others, loved the "Top Ten Fun Facts About America" and thought they were great. I agree and feel things such as fun facts can really motivate children to learn something interesting, no matter what the subject may be. I know this book will be a constant source of reference for me and will help a great deal in teaching my future students.
In reading chapters One and Two i found it very interesting to read inforamtion that I have either forgot or that I do not have a recollection of learning. I think as beocmong a future teacher i this book is a very useful tool that we can use as techers to beother teach social studies in a foraml or fun way. i this this book is very easy toread and the inforamtion is very important for my future students and for me to learn as a future teacher. I think students really need to be interested insocial studeies, but i think with using this book it can really help techers brign there students in to help them get intersted in socail studies.
The Everything American History Book is a great book for both students and teachers to read. The chapters are almost in the form of a time line which I feel is a great way to learn history. Cause and effect is an important aspect of history and a great reason to study history. Studying the causes of certain things could possibly help to prevent future bad events. When learning things in order it helps you to remember the information better as well. I think it is great for a teacher to read because it helps to lay out all the major topics and events. I like how the chapters were not drawn out with too much information. I think this is important when trying to keep the student's attention. The questions in the chapters were also a great way of getting the students to think outside the box and really become involved with the lesson.
In response to Melissa's posting I also liked the "E" and "Top Ten" facts. I feel as if they are a fun interesting way to break up the lesson and keep the children thinking. These facts may even spark the children's interest into wanting to research more information on their own.
While reading chapter 1, I found the layout of the chapter very helpful. Like most everyone else mentioned, the breakdown with subtitles made the reading very easy. It is often difficult to read paragraph after paragraph in textbooks because eventually I lose track of what I am reading about. In the case of the "everything American History Book," the titles help to keep my focus. On a Historical note, I found the information in chapter 1 quite interesting, mainly the reason being is that I had never really learned history dating that far back. I remember Christopher Columbus and everything after the discovery of America through him, but I cannot recall every discussing the first European contacts. The forensic evidence connecting North American and Siberia peoples was also very interesting and new to me.
In response to chapter 1, I have re-collected my thoughts on the Pre-Columbian Americas. There were some things that I knew and some I was not familiar with. When reading the E stats and facts it really helped me gain more knowledge and understanding while reading the chapters. It was good to touch upon the civilizations of the Aztecs, the Maya, and the Incas. This brought my attention to focus on how no matter what or who... there is a form of communication people use to understand things.
This book really interests me because it is light duty reading and is more clear to understand when it is broken down into topics, I also get a better understanding of just the basic facts. When I have to read "The Everything American History Book" I honestly cant wait to read it because it gets right to the point.
After reading the first two chapters in The Everything American History Book, I have found it easy to read, quick and informative. I found it very interesting that the Bering Strait land bridge once connected northern Asia and Alaska. Since 1992, the ocean levels have been rising at a rate of one-eighth inch each year due to global warming. I also read how in the Aztec empire, cacao bean which is used in chocolate and cocoa butter, was also usaed as currency in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. I learned most Native Americans died due to diseases such as small pox. Finally, I also learned how Columbus died in 1506 still thinking he had reached Asia on his journeys. Like many other people that commented above me, I found the book to be easy to read and broke down the important facts for us to be able to learn and one day teach.
After reading chapters one and two, I refreshed my memmory on many things that i havent thought about in a long time and also learned some new things. This book is a good way to take complex material and simplify it. The facts also a good way to reinforce what you want to teach. I agree with everyone when they say that it is unlife most text books that are trying to put vocabulary and excess information. It is a good way to refresh yourself on waht you want to teach in a way that the children in your classroom will understand.
I feel that this book is a great book to have... It is not like most texted where the reading are dry and boring. This book gives the reader a better understand about the reading. I feel this book would be a great asset in the classroom, from the fun facts to the essential information.
In response to chapter 2, I had always thought we were taught that Columbus had discovered the new world- but in reality as stated in the book, he did not discover a new work rather he established a connection between two old worlds.
The entire time Columbus was sailing around every time he came across a peice of land he had insisted that in some way it was connected to or part of Asia, he died in 1506 still thinking he had reached and discovered a new world, Asia.
In response to Chapter 2,I agree with Kelly and found it interesting to read that Columbus died still thinking that he had reached Asia. Europeans settlers that came to America brought with them diseases like smallpox, whooping cough and measles that Native Americans had no resistance to. I found it disheartening to read how "diseases brought to the Caribbean by the Europeans contributed to the deaths of more than 3 million Native Americans between 1494 and 1508.
Reading about Christopher Columbus in chapter 2 brought back a lot of facts and names that I havent heard in a long time. Reading about the "Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria" reminded me of all the fun activities and songs there are related to the Holiday. I thought it was very interesting to read the fun fact that mentioned Christopher Columbus is one of only 2 national holidays that honors only one person.
In response to Kelly and Trish, I also think it was interesting that Columbus died before realizing he didnt really discove Asia.
Anthony...testing
Ingrid....testing
Anlly
......... testing
deanne....testing
11/11/08
Deanne said.....
Chapter's 1,2,and 3
The advancement, scientific knowledge and the generosity of the Aztec, Maya and Incas Indians are very interesting. As a teacher I would get the students motivated and asking questions. We would investigate how three civilizations were distroyed for one civilization the European to survive and be prosperous.
Ingrid says…
Chapter 1
While reading this chapter, it brought back a lot of memories of events I read about a long time ago. It also reaffirmed what I always believe that Christopher Columbus did not discover America; they were indigenous people already in all these places he claimed to have discovered. I always thought that the Spaniards conquistadors stole from the indigenous people and gave them very little in return. They destroyed the Incas and Aztecs indigenous civilizations followed by the Mayas. These indigenous civilizations were very intelligent people. The Aztecs introduced the counting system using pictographs. The Maya developed the calendar system while the Incas were the first to performed medical surgeries and used herbal remedies to treat different illnesses.
Chapter 2
In this chapter credit is given to Christopher Columbus for finding the “New world”. Columbus sailed again in search of Asia. This time he sailed in three ships; Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria. As already stated the Americas were always there but Columbus made the claim. Is just like when the seaman from the ‘Pinta” first saw land and Columbus claimed that he first saw it so the Queen would pay him the yearly pension instead of the actual seaman that first saw land. I’m reliving Columbus journey and still amazed that every time I read I find some new information. Columbus miscalculated and thought he found Asia when he was in the Caribbean. The Santa Maria sank, and the survivors were left and they created the first colony of European settlers. These people had to live among the different Indian tribes and learn from them to be able to survive. What a surprised the Indian tribes shared their food and knowledge with these Europeans and in returned they got sickness and diseases from them. Many Native Americans died from smallpox, whooping cough and measles. One would believe that they were really trying to wipe out the Native American and as we see in history today they’re almost extinct.
After reading the first few chapters in the text I can say it provided a much needed "refresher" on many of the early events in the history of our country. Also although never mentioning it I thought of the importance of understanding where a specific historic source came from. When teaching history especially it is important to know where the information is coming from. Different people have different points of view. Typically we try and seek out as many primary sources as possible because they are coming directly from a person living in the time being studied. The information on Columbus in the opening chapters is obviously important to our history, but whenever possible it is necessary to think about another point of view such as the Native Americans in that example.
Ingrid said.....
while reading anthony's comments, I have to agree with what he said about history. It's important to know where the information is coming from and take other point of view into account. Referring to Columbus, yes we should keep an open mind in relation to his "discoveries" but not forget the point of view of the Native Americans.
I agree with what Ingrid said that Christopher Columbus did not discover the world. According to chapter 1 when he and his sailors got there they met the native Indians.
deanne said.... according to Natassia M. I also feel that "the Everything American History book" is a well written book. I believe tht it was written for teachers to utilize in classrooms so students will have a clear comprehension of American History.
I love history so much I tivo shows form the history channel. Any history class is a passage to a deeper understanding of what people were doing the days before our very existence. That aspect is fascinating because a lot of times you find the history does in fact repeat itself. Top ten fun facts was actually fun. I would love to hear what the pronunciation for Lake Chargoggagoggmanchuggauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg. I also challenge someone to say it three consecutive times without butchering it. I want to know though was has Christopher Columbus done to some of you? I know the man is not perfect but I don’t understand why he gets under the skin of so many people. I know he did not discovery America. I know he was not pleasant to the natives in the Americas. I know two Vikings found a passage or connection the new world. I know he incorrectly name the inhabitant Indians thinking he was in India. Maybe he doesn’t deserve a holiday but could we give him credit? Many people during that time still thought the world was flat. He was brave enough to even propose a trip across the Atlantic. How important was it for our history. Think about it? I don’t think he expected this kind of backlash when he set out on this historical trip. He changed history by reintroducing the two worlds. I know someone else would have introduced us to the connection of the worlds but the fact is it was Christopher Columbus.
In response to Ashley comment, I find the Fun facts stimulates my brain in a fun way. It's fast and interesting data that you can bring up during a dinner party and sound smart. I can't wait for my next suit and tie sophisticated party!
deanne said...
The question still remains did Columbus really discover the new world? Columbus thought that the earth was round. Instead of going south along the coast of Africa, up north to the pacific and Indian ocean into Asia, he went south west into the Atlantic Ocean. and thought that it was Asia. I agree with Kelly columbus did not discover a new world. I also believed that he made the connection between the old and new world.
In response to Freddy's comment, I do believe that Columbus is a unique historical figure in that he does "get under the skin of many people". Like you said he should be acknowledged for having the courage to challenge many of the ideas of the time by accepting the world was round and setting out for his journey. I think he gets under people's skin because many of us were taught the "glorified" version of his expedition only later on finding out the kind of man he really way and the brutality he brought upon the Native Americans.
-Anthony
deanne said...
Chapter 8
The information I acquired from reading "The Everything American History Book" has left a lasting impression on me with regards to Abraham Lincoln and what he achieved. I must admit I was clueless about most of the information in the book. Abraham Lincoln was multitalented. He worked in the forest, attended log cabin school, he was a state legislator, a ferry boat captain, a postmaster, a lawyer and ultimately the 16th president of the United States.
Abraham Lincoln had a thirsr for knowledge. Although very young he read books about "George Washington"; the first president of the United States. Lincoln was against slavery; in fact he did not support the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1954, which gave territories total control and decisions related to slavery.
As a fourth grade teacher I would develop lessons which would involve activities utilizing the internet. The students would searched the web for information on Lincoln. We would explore his childhood into adult years, his years as president and years after his presidency. The children would recognize that Lincoln was an outstanding historical figure and president.
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In response to Freddy's comment, I believe that Christopher Columbus brought detruction to an entire civilization. The only credit he should get is for being responsible for the death and dissparearance of a culture. His people did so many terrible things to the Indias; they brought diseases, rape the women, made them slaves, took their land and gold, not to mention imposing a culture that they did not understand. When we celebrate Christopher Columbus Day, we are honoring all the crimes that they Spanish committed against these people. If that is the case, let's celebrate, George W. Bush Day.
Ever since I was young, I have always being fascinating with the history of the development of the early civilizations. The Mayas, Incas and Aztecas, contributed to the enhancement of many societies and the development of architecture. Some of the crafts and the piramids that they built are still preserved. Many things have been said about how they were able to built such structures. Some people say that aliens from other planets helped them, because of the height and the size of the bricks that they used. Other people say that it remains a mistery they type of technology that they used to built such structures. Spain is responsible for the dissapearance of many civilizations, and the death and destruction of its people. I wonder, why do we celebrate Columbus Day if he did nothing but killing, stealing and destroyed. He did not discover America; when he arrived in America, America was already habitat by Indian tribes. Supported by the crown, he made them slaves, rape their women, spreaded diseases, killed thousands of Indians, stole their gold and took over their land. Yet, we honor him. The only contribution me made was proving that the earth was round, not flat.
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