Still Colonizing America!

We have been following so many rabbit trails that we find ourselves pretty thick in the forest right now. There are just so many fun books and movies to go with this time period (some more historically accurate than others!).

I have made some adjustments to James' participation in our American History studies. He seemed to be getting frustrated with what I had planned for the boys to do. After giving it some thought, I realized that in spite of being the sophisticated age of nine, he really is more of a "younger elementary" student. To that end, I am picking and choosing a few projects that more fit his needs and he can just listen in for the rest. In a few years, he can have a redo.

I knew that my assessment was correct when he was working on his Thanksgiving booklet and said- "I think this must be way funner than what the boys are doing."

This booklet is made using US History Little Books: Famous Events. You can tell James took a little artistic license! 

For the older boys: 

The older boys' history notebook is taking shape. I want something that can be a learning tool- not just somewhere to store work. 

When trying to determine a format, I talked to a friend who told me she had decided to use the pocket format a while back- she later "discovered" history pockets! 

I like this format for a few reasons: It will allow the boys to add information on the topic (each topic has its own pocket) as the year goes on and it makes it easy to pull out elements if we want to use something to study. 

The boys make all the decisions concerning how the final product will look- they dig through my paper supply, print titles on the computer, and assemble them the way they like. I love giving suggestions when they want them, but often they don't. 

Recent Booklets- 

 A booklet, glued to a 5 x 7 piece of paper, folds out with information on the New England colonies on each flap. It opens to show information on the Triangular Trade. (from Hands On History Colonial America -one of my $1 deals!). 

Don't forget this cool Triangular Trade video to go with! 

The boys made this book below with inspiration from The Inspired Classroom.

Our Hands on History did not have a page for the French exploration and settlement. This is hardly exhaustive, but we had to include at least some information. We may add a map or two as well.

BTW-

The method for making the pockets came from the Hands on History guide. I know this is probably a "no duh" to more creative types, but I'll share the "how to".

Fold a piece of paper in half. Slip another piece of paper in the folded piece. Use packing tape to make the sides of the "pocket". We used card stock, and we cut the pocket paper down just a smidge.

There you have it. A sturdy page with pockets on both sides.


Today, I was particularly inspired by All Things Beautiful's featured blogger on the History and Geography meme. You can see a wealth of history and geography adventures over there!