The following is a press release written by the Maine Department of Education:
The Maine DOE is accepting applications for a pilot program with the American Ancestors/New England Historic Genealogical Society. Help students think like a historian and learn how to trace families back in time. Receive inquiry-based lessons that incorporate authentic methodologies used by professional genealogists. Lessons guide students through the process of conducting family history research, and students will hone their research skills using primary sources and case studies from local Native American and African American history. Go beyond family trees and help students make real-world, personal connections to history.
Lesson Plans that Support Students to:
- Plan and carry out research
- Analyze and evaluate genealogical sources
- Draw conclusions and support claims with evidence
- Provide guided practice with primary sources (census records, vital records, photographs, etc.)
Case Studies
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Figures from local Native American and African American history
Inclusive Teaching Strategies
- Make genealogy accessible to all students
- Navigate sensitive topics with students
- Address common misconceptions about genealogy
This pilot begins with an in-person workshop in June. During the 2023-2024 school year, the American Ancestors/New England Historic Genealogical Society will provide two virtual sessions to support teachers using these resources in their classrooms. Additionally, the DOE will conduct a monthly virtual PLC to provide a space for teachers to collaborate.
- Application Deadline: June 1 , 2023
- Click to Apply
- For Teachers of Grades: 4-8
- Cost: Free
| In-person workshop |
Virtual Follow-Up Sessions |
Virtual PLC |
|
Date: Monday, June 26, 2023
Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: Maine DOE, Augusta, ME
|
Date: October & March
Time: TBD
Location: Zoom
|
Date: Once a month beginning in November
Time: TBD
Location: Zoom
|
For more information about this program, please contact Jaime Beal, Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist.