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There is much more to explore in our calendar. Find other important events in literary history, authors' birthdays, and a variety of holidays, each with related lessons and resources.
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Home › Classroom Resources › Calendar Activities
April 05
Pocahontas married John Rolfe on this date in 1614.
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| Grades | 7 – 12 |
| Calendar Activity Type | Historical Figure & Event |
Although Pocahontas married John Rolfe, many students may believe that she was in love with Captain John Smith, and that she boldly threw herself in between him and her father to save his life. For years, students have been receiving historically inaccurate information about Pocahontas. For example, the story about how Pocahontas saved Smith's life has never been validated.
There are many stories and poems written about Pocahontas that are based on inaccurate information. Read "The Chieftan's Daughter" by George Pope Morris together. (Depending on the students' grade levels, some of the words may be difficult for them to understand.) Show students the fresco that tells the legend of Pocahontas saving Captain John Smith's life. Explain that this story is actually a legend that has never been proven, but that it has maintained a place in history because it has been used in both factual and fictional accounts of the princess's life.
Discuss with students the difference between fact and fiction, and then discuss writers' uses of fact in historical fiction. Ask students to research Pocahontas through primary sources to find some documented information about the John Smith legend. Then, have students write original stories, poems, or songs based on their research. These works can be either historical fiction or factual, depending upon preference, but students should be prepared to explain which style they choose.
- America's Story from America's Library: Pocahontas
The Library of Congress provides this resource about Pocahontas, pointing out some of the myths associated with her life.
- Virtual Jamestown
This website features letters, maps, images, court records, and other primary documents. Students can also access images and information about Pocahontas.
- Pocahontas
This BBC resource offers primary students information on Pocahontas. There is a simple story, a glossary, and a short game.
- History of Jamestown
In addition to maps and information, this site offers an excellent timeline of the establishment of Jamestown and a list of the early settlers.
Grades 3 – 5 | Lesson Plan | Standard Lesson
Looking for the History in Historical Fiction: An Epidemic for Reading
This lesson pairs the reading of historical fiction with nonfiction to introduce students to the large themes of history.
Grades 3 – 5 | Lesson Plan | Standard Lesson
Blending Fiction and Nonfiction to Improve Comprehension and Writing Skills
Students use a text set to increase understanding of content area material and demonstrate what they have learned by writing an original piece that blends together narrative and expository elements.
Grades 9 – 12 | Lesson Plan | Standard Lesson
The Peace Journey: Using Process Drama in the Classroom
What does peace mean to you? In this lesson, students attempt to answer this question as they write and perform a short skit that reflects their ideas of peace.
