Gold was discovered in California in 1848.

Students read letters from the Gold Rush and follow up by writing an imaginary letter to a family member about their experience using the Letter Generator.

Grades   3 – 12

Poet Robert Burns was born in 1759.

Students read examples of traditional Scottish ballads and use this information to write and perform their own ballads.

Grades   7 – 12

Today, the American Library Association announces its annual book award winners.

Students research different awards given by the ALA and do an activity based on one of the awards.

Grades   3 – 12

Today is the birthday of Lewis Carroll, author of Alice in Wonderland.

After reading one of Carroll's chapters, students plan an unbirthday party and do activities and preparation for the event.

Grades   3 – 6

The Space Shuttle Challenger exploded in 1986.

Students interview a parent or another adult about the Challenger and hypothesize about differences. Students can also write about the Columbia disaster in 2003.

Grades   3 – 12

Poe's "The Raven" was published in 1845.

As Poe's "The Raven" is read aloud, students note their reactions and discuss the changes or development of their first impressions as the poem continues.

Grades   7 – 12