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Select a book to view its educational programs:
George Washington's Remarkable Solutions
Discovering George Washington as Scientific Thinker and Early Adopter of Technology
Tailored for Grades: 4-5, 6-8
Brief Description: In this interactive presentation, students are introduced to a lesser-known side of Washington as a scientific thinker, creative problem solver, and early adopter of technology. Students will hear excerpts of the book read aloud and learn factual information about problem solving using the technology of the 18th century. They can participate in an interactive reenactment of decision-making involved in crop rotation on the farm. Students should come away with a new understanding and appreciation of technology, its role in early America, and how it has changed over time, in addition to insights into George Washington as a scientific problem solver.
Duration: approximately 45 minutes
The Great Explosion: A Powder Mill Chronicle
Creating a Chronicle: Beginning Journaling
Grades: 1-3
Brief Description: The Great Explosion is based on a true story taken from the journal of Eleuthera du Pont. Children are introduced to the history and importance of mills, the idea of journaling, and why journaling is a critical primary source of historical information. Children will hear the story read aloud, have a chance to ask questions, and learn about the steps in creating a chronology of events.
Duration: approximately 45 minutes
Accompanying Text: The Great Explosion
Finding the Story Arc
Tailored for Grades: 3-5, 6-8, or 9-12
Brief Description: Students will learn about the narrative components of a story and how the author creates an arc. They will identify these components as the author reads the story aloud, and the children will have a chance to ask questions. They can outline the arc of a story they are thinking about writing. This can be done in pairs or as a solo activity.
Duration: approximately 60 minutes
Accompanying Text: The Great Explosion, A Powder Mill Chronicle
