Learning About Research and Writing Using the American Revolution

Overview

From Theory to Practice

OVERVIEW

Internet research can add depth to content area study, as can using the information found in various genres. This lesson combines historical research and acrostic poetry. Students begin the lesson by activating background knowledge about the American Revolution. They then conduct research on a historical figure using a variety of resources. When research is complete, students write an acrostic poem informing their classmates about the historical figure's importance to the American Revolution.

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FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE

Tancock, S.M. (2002). Reading, writing, and technology: A healthy mix in the social studies curriculum. Reading Online, 5(8). Available: http://www.readingonline.org/articles/art_index.asp?HREF=tancock/index.html

• It is increasingly important for teachers to give their students opportunities to learn using technology, while at the same time helping them to make judgments about the information they find and how it can be used in problem solving.
  
  
• The Internet offers a wealth of information that can enhance content area learning.
  
  
• Students will not automatically know how to use the Internet as a research tool-they will need instruction in how to scan, skim, summarize, and locate information.

Routman, Regie. 1996. Literacy at the Crossroads: Crucial Talk about Reading, Writing, and Other Teaching Dilemmas. Portsmouth, NH: Heinemann.

Vaughan, J., & Estes, T. (1986). Reading and reasoning beyond the primary grades. Boston, MA: Allyn and Bacon.

Dreher, Jean, et al. 2000. Easy Steps to Writing Fantastic Research Reports (Grades 3-6). New York: Scholastic Professional Books.

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