How can I Present History Effectively?

Susan Fitzell, M.Ed., CSP — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 16:54:21 +0000

Processing Long Information History Chapters!

Susan Streetman, Nederland HS writes, in history, some chapters are long and packed with information. Sometimes I think – how can I present this effectively? It’s too much! So, on colorful large index cards, I write quippy versions of the chapter’s subtopics. (using the exact subtopic would be too easy). Kids can confer during the game.

The Quippy History Game

Materials Needed

Then, also in my own words, I use small white index cards to write the main points under the subtopic. I try to make them humorous. I tell students a tough game is coming and tell them to be prepared. On the day of the game, I use music, a timer and a box. Student materials are the answers all mixed up, a handout with the quippy subtopics and lines denoting the number of items.

How to play the ‘game’

I begin with 3 minutes on the clock. I deal white cards after placing colored cards around the room while the time clicks off. I play music and students have to run around and deal information cards to match the correct heading. We check for the correct matches, put the wrong matches in the box, set timer for 2 minutes and re-deal. They love it and end up with a chapter review. They move around but must be in chair when the timer goes off.

The Summary Race

Cut up summaries to chapters, put students in groups. They race to be first (for a privilege) to descramble and paste the summary together accurately.

Fishing game.

Box decorated to look like ocean, a Scooby Doo fishing pole with a magnet instead of a hook. Paperboard fish with paperclips through eye-holes in ocean. Students compete in pairs to answer questions using magic slates. When correct, blind folded and go fishing. Number of fish lead to a privilege prize.

A Strategy using Videos to Cover History Topics

When I show films, I give out film sheets with different questions on them and 5 lines at the bottom. After the film clip, they must find 5 people with facts different to theirs that they place on their lines. These are shared and used for extra credit.

Groups Idea

Pick an explorer. Research his exploits. Make a poster. Use a clever title like “ Do you have any Ponce de Leon?” (students did that)! The poster must include; a time line, pictures of accomplishments, a map of his trek/s, and at least one navigational tool known at the time.

Give student groups transparencies

Group assignments are placed on them. They present and they are there for all to see. For example, we play, “Constitution Idol” ; student groups must present in any format the 27 amendments to the constitution DVDs, CDs, live. They can take liberties with words. They are an absolute riot. Everything from Barney to rap, Travis Tritt, Chumbawumba,. They are so great. Wear red, while, blue on awards day – for cookie or cake and photo for newspaper. They decide the winner. They all learn the amendments.

Susan Streetman
Nederland HS

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