Mentor Text Linky~ Social Studies

Hi all!
I feel like I've been in the land of the lost. I have had no time and very little motivation this week. Working in the summer really cuts into free time! LOL! I only have 2 days left of training then about 2 weeks off before preplanning week. All in all training has been very rewarding. Most of the teachers in our sessions have been so open to change and so positive about the information we shared. One teacher asked my partner and I if we ever come to schools to give presentations. WOW! That made me feel like we had done our job and did it well!

Today I'm so happy to get back in the groove of blogging AND joining my faves over at Collaboration Cuties for their Mentor Text Linky.

Social Studies text is the topic of today. I wish our 3rd grade curriculum had more American history embedded in it, but it doesn't so I find myself adding it in. Following our state mandates for social studies, though, gives me that "permission".  I think it's especially important to teach kids about the patriotic symbols of  our country, including patriotic songs. The Star-Spangled Banner is one that I'm sure most kids (and maybe adults) do not know the history of.
This informational text, By the Dawn's Early Light: The Story of the Star-Spangled Banner
gives kids a rich history of our national anthem.

The text is appropriate for upper elementary, 4th-6th, but I use it as a read aloud for my 3rd graders. I'll be honest and say I don't have a specific lesson for this, but it is certainly perfect for any informational text standards. I just like to read it for fun and pleasure and to teach the kids a little something!

The oil painting illustrations are stunning. At the end of the book you will find some primary source documents, too. The original manuscript for the National Anthem and historic maps are included. The author's note gives additional history, as well. If you are looking for activities to do with primary and secondary sources (which is a huge part of our 3rd grade curriculum) check out the National Archives or The Library of Congress.

Now I do love this book, but I will tell you it's a little hard to find. If you click this link * By the Dawn's Early Light  * you will find used copies at Better World Books...my most favorite used book destination! You may even find some other hard-to-find books there to add to your classroom library.

Thanks for stopping by today and I hope this is a book you might use in your room!