What are you thankful for?

In honor of Thanksgiving, here are some great sites to use in the classroom or at home. I realize I'm a week late on getting this on here for many of the teachers to use with their students, but it is still fabulous for kids to look through during off time. I've gone through all of them, and I think I spent the most time on the virtual trips. For some reason, I am absolutely fascinated with them.

The First Thanksgiving

What it is: An interactive website

Description: The site contains info about Pilgrims’ voyage and life in the New World. It includes text and audio. You can even tour the ship!

Skills Addressed: historical events, vocabulary, comparing and contrasting

Virtual Field Trip:

What it is: An interactive website, includes Teacher’s Guide and zip file of printouts for students
Description: This is a program for older students. It includes a walking tour of Plymouth Plantation.

You’re the Historian

What it is: Interactive site where the student investigates history

Description: (from the site) In this fun, award-winning activity, kids take on the role of “history detectives” to investigate what really happened at the famous 1621 celebration. (Hint: It was a lot more than just a feast!) Along the way, they’ll read a letter written by an eyewitness to the event, learn about Wampanoag traditions of giving thanks, and visit Pilgrim Mary Allerton’s home. As a final activity, kids can design and print their own Thanksgiving exhibit panel.

The True Story of the First Thanksgiving

What it is: article

Description: This is a great article that details the First Thanksgiving.

Mayflower: A Hands-On History Look at the Pilgrims’ Journey to the New World

What it is: 33-page pdf file

Description: Teachers can copy the file and use it in the classroom.
Skills Addressed: vocabulary, life on the Mayflower, characterization of the Pilgrims and the Wampanoags

Story of Squanto

What it is: Weekly Reader story

Description: Text and audio, quiz, and interactive activity