Quick American history

[PinkInTheBlue]

We've spent so much time on SOTW 1&2 that it's been a really long time since we touched on American history. It's coming up sometimes and my ex (their daddy) mentioned something about an American history topic and they didn't remember. So, as much as I'd rather not, I think it could be interesting to do some light, quick, interesting American Cliff Notes while we are continuing with our regularly scheduled history. Does anyone know of anything that would hit the spot? Even a workbook or somewhat simple book.

Thoughts?

Thanks!

[KarenNC]

You might try looking at Story of the USA, books 1-4
http://www.sonlight.com/3H361.html
or
http://www.epsbooks.com/dynamic/catalog/series.asp?seriesonly=1631M
(has answer keys)

they are a little cheaper here http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=371637&event=CFN

I saw this in the Sonlight catalog and am using it with my 3rd grader along with SOTW. It's from EPS, so it is not a Christian-specific text at all, if that is of concern.

We've just finished book 1 as a review which has caught us up to the American Revolution. It's a workbook format with a page or so of text, vocabulary words, review questions (true/false, multiple choice and fill in the answer) and some nice discussion questions for each section. I picked up all four of the books and will be working them in with SOTW as we go through vol. 3 and 4.

[ELaurie]

we are enjoying the Liberty's Kids series. They provide an engaging, informative overview of events leading up to and following the Revolutionary War.

[Chris in VA]

The Betsy Maestro books are simple intro's to Am Hist. Winter Promise used to use them with AS 1--not sure if they still do. They are colorful and easy to read aloud.

[HollyinNNV]

We've spent so much time on SOTW 1&2 that it's been a really long time since we touched on American history. It's coming up sometimes and my ex (their daddy) mentioned something about an American history topic and they didn't remember. So, as much as I'd rather not, I think it could be interesting to do some light, quick, interesting American Cliff Notes while we are continuing with our regularly scheduled history. Does anyone know of anything that would hit the spot? Even a workbook or somewhat simple book.

Thoughts?

Thanks!

We read this book every morning at the breakfast table. Both kids like it. It only takes a few minutes, but inspires lots of discussion. Highly recommend it!
http://www.amazon.com/American-Patriots-Almanac-Readings-America/dp/1595552677/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1235606588&sr=8-1

[PinkInTheBlue]

Thank you Karen! That looks exactly like what I have in mind. I already ordered 2. Also, Laurie, I've heard much about the Liberty Kids dvds. I'll probably get some of those.

You might try looking at Story of the USA, books 1-4

[OhElizabeth]

Holly, that book looks good! Thanks! :)

[KarenNC]

Thank you Karen! That looks exactly like what I have in mind. I already ordered 2. Also, Laurie, I've heard much about the Liberty Kids dvds. I'll probably get some of those.

We've found them useful.

As to the Liberty's Kids dvds, check and see if you can access them from your library's online services. I just found out the other day that we can watch Liberty's Kids (at least some of them) and Cyberchase that way for free (along with some other PBS shows).

Another place to find a few episodes is http://www.kewlcartoons.com/ for free or through Netflix if you have a subscription.

[darlasowders]

http://www.amazon.com/Childrens-Encyclopedia-American-Smithsonian-Institution/dp/0789483300/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1235620955&sr=1-1

It covers US history in 304 pgs, 18 chapters of less than 20 pgs each.

Also, for older kids (a bit on the "gritty" side) The Cartoon History of the United States:

http://www.amazon.com/Cartoon-History-United-States-Gonick/dp/0062730983/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1235620905&sr=1-6

[AudreyTN]

You can watch Liberty's Kids free on Youtube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aLWHuxPqsk&feature=related).

You can also watch them here. (http://www.kewlcartoons.com/show/watch/LibertysKids)

[melmac]

My boys and I really enjoyed the Complete Book of US History.

http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Book-U-S-History/dp/1561896799/ref=pd_bbs_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1235784181&sr=8-1

HTH :)