teaching historical fiction elementary

Teaching Historical Fiction in Elementary Schools: Engaging Students with Stories from the Past

Introducing young students to historical concepts and events can be a challenge, but one effective way to make history come alive is through the use of historical fiction. By incorporating captivating stories set in different time periods, teachers can engage elementary school students and foster an interest in history. In this article, we will explore the benefits of teaching historical fiction in elementary schools and provide recommendations for popular historical fiction books, authors, and online resources that can enhance this learning experience.

Why Teach Historical Fiction?

1. Cultivating a love for history: Historical fiction allows students to immerse themselves in different time periods, making history relatable and exciting. By connecting to characters and their experiences, students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the past.

2. Developing empathy and critical thinking skills: Historical fiction offers students the opportunity to explore diverse perspectives and understand the complexities of historical events. By analyzing characters' motives and decisions, students can develop empathy and enhance their critical thinking skills.

3. Creating a bridge between literature and social studies: Incorporating historical fiction into the curriculum enables teachers to integrate literature and social studies, fostering interdisciplinary connections. This approach encourages students to see history as a living, dynamic subject rather than a collection of facts.

4. Sparking curiosity and creativity: Historical fiction often sparks students' curiosity and prompts them to explore further. By encouraging students to ask questions and conduct research, teachers can cultivate a love for lifelong learning.

Notable Historical Fiction Books for Elementary Students:

1. "Number the Stars" by Lois Lowry: Set in Denmark during World War II, this story follows a young girl's journey to save her Jewish best friend. The book provides an accessible introduction to the Holocaust and bravery in the face of adversity.

2. "The Keeping Quilt" by Patricia Polacco: This heartwarming tale tells the story of a quilt that is passed down through generations, symbolizing the enduring love and connection within a family. It introduces students to themes of immigration and cultural heritage.

3. "Sarah, Plain and Tall" by Patricia MacLachlan: Set in the late 19th century, this Newbery Medal-winning book tells the story of Sarah, who travels from Maine to the American Midwest to become a mail-order bride. It explores themes of family, resilience, and the pioneer era.

4. "The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963" by Christopher Paul Curtis: This powerful novel follows the Watson family's journey from their home in Michigan to Birmingham, Alabama, during the Civil Rights Movement. Through humor and sensitivity, the book addresses racial discrimination, friendship, and family bonds.

Authors renowned for their historical fiction:

1. Laura Ingalls Wilder: Known for the beloved "Little House on the Prairie" series, Wilder's books provide a vivid portrayal of pioneer life in the late 19th century.

2. Christopher Paul Curtis: Curtis has written several award-winning historical fiction books, including "Bud, Not Buddy" and "Elijah of Buxton," which delve into African American history and the struggles faced by marginalized communities.

3. Avi: With books like "The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle" and "Crispin: The Cross of Lead," Avi has transported readers to various historical time periods, captivating them with adventure and rich historical details.

Online Resources for Teaching Historical Fiction:

1. TeachingBooks: This website provides an extensive collection of resources, including lesson plans, author interviews, and book guides, to support the teaching of historical fiction in elementary schools.

2. ReadWriteThink: As part of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), this website offers lesson plans, interactive activities, and book recommendations for integrating historical fiction into the classroom.

3. Time for Kids: The Time for Kids website features articles, videos, and photographs that introduce students to historical events and figures. It provides an engaging supplement to historical fiction books and encourages further exploration.

By incorporating historical fiction into the elementary school curriculum, teachers can ignite a passion for history in their students. Through well-chosen books, renowned authors, and curated online resources, educators can create an enriching and captivating learning experience. Let the power of historical fiction transport young minds to the past and inspire a lifelong appreciation for the stories that have shaped our world.
Sparrow Turns into Phoenix: Your Highness is not at ease. Fiction
Sparrow Turns into Phoenix: Your Highness is not at ease.

Prince Shen Yuli, who was down and out, found a young eunuch in the deserted garden. The eunuch had fair skin, a beautiful appearance, and a clever and adorable demeanor, but he was a bit noisy. Like a sparrow. Sparrows have wild nature and need to be properly restrained, or they will fly away. One day, the thread that tied them together snapped with a crack. I recommend and collect the new novel "Nine Lives Phoenix Destiny" and "I Invite You to Carry the Plaque", please support. Love you all! (づ ̄ ̄)づ╭?~

146.77 Million words | 2023-06-01 05:33Update

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Three Kingdoms of Battle Fiction
Three Kingdoms of Battle

The young man left Wu Ling City, riding a wild horse and accompanied by a leopard and a sparrow. Leading a powerful mercenary group, he arrogantly manipulated the heroes of the world, overturning the heavens and earth with a flick of his finger. This young king, who would change the world's situation, is coming towards you... _____________________________________________________________________ This is an epic mercenary adventure set in the Three Kingdoms era. _____________________________________________________________________ Updates will be posted daily, so brothers and sisters, please rest assured and bookmark this story. Don't forget to support with monthly tickets!

247.42 Million words | 2021-11-18 10:13Update

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Holy Tang Dynasty. Fiction
Holy Tang Dynasty.

Mei Tianlang, a narcotics police officer, was injured in the head and traveled back to the Tang Dynasty, becoming the only descendant of the usurper Yuwen Huaji, a figure never recorded in history. He discovered that the Tang Dynasty he found himself in had significant differences from what he knew. Was it due to historical inaccuracies or the influence of his time travel? In his early days, he encountered a Turkic invasion at the Wei River, leading to

155.81 Million words | 2020-08-09 04:24Update

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The Thirteen Secret Fiction
The Thirteen Secret

Heaven as a tent, earth as a blanket, The sun, moon, and stars accompany my sleep. In the night, dare not extend my feet, Fear of treading upon the mountains, rivers, and sacred places. The QQ discussion groups for this book are as follows: 影魅饕餮商羊虚耗 本有八个群,现在集中一下 希望都加到四个群里 在镜花水月混沌傲因这四个群的观众 希望看到后能够转移。

183.68 Million words | 2021-03-03 16:49Update

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The Ultimate Prince Fiction
The Ultimate Prince

Duan Zhong has many famous quotes. For example, I want to time travel. So he time traveled. For example, I want a beautiful woman. So he saw Su Su. For example, I want to conquer the world. So he learned to indulge in fantasies. The bloody and shameless growth history of JP prince...very lewd, very shameless. Not produced, guaranteed completed. Already completed one novel on K. Collecting flowers, not one less! If you have any opinions, feel free to discuss with me: The original old group didn't have much popularity, those interested can join: [group link]

5.91 Million words | 2020-07-08 01:44Update

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Strong soldiers/army Fiction
Strong soldiers/army

Fans of the Iron Blood Army's history, please show your support! Author's custom tag: Hot-blooded

208.73 Million words | 2021-03-12 21:05Update

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Dressed in brocade, he walks with a proud smile. Fiction
Dressed in brocade, he walks with a proud smile.

"Heroes of the world are born of my generation, as time hastens once we enter the rivers and lakes." Clad in white like snow, swift as the wind, finding pleasure in justice and vengeance, aiding the weak and overcoming the strong. None of these have anything to do with the protagonist and a penny. A modern commoner, his soul transmigrates to the Ming Dynasty. Attached to the cousin of renowned Zheng Guifei, he finds himself in a dimension quite distinct from both his original world and historical reality. Flintlock rifles, telescopes, anything he can think of, they all exist now? Can't you leave anything for me? Thankfully, I have a capable sister who possesses great skills. No one can take away this advantage. Witness how the resplendent leader of the Imperial Bodyguard plays his part in the rivers and lakes and laughs proudly in the imperial court. Experience a different rivers and lakes, a different form of pride.

549.96 Million words | 2022-11-21 05:45Update

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Ace Special Forces in the Turbulent End of the Sui Dynasty Fiction
Ace Special Forces in the Turbulent End of the Sui Dynasty

To save the beauty, he ventures alone into the forbidden palace, putting aside grievances, he joins the army to campaign in the west. Embracing literary talents, gathering fierce generals, he vies for control of the Central Plains. Calming the desolate north, conquering Persia, setting sail overseas. Liu Ziqiu, the ace special forces soldier, travels through the end of the Sui Dynasty, rising against the chaos, expanding territories. He will present to you an extraordinary story of the Sui and Tang Dynasty... Group ID: [Please provide the group number]

505.72 Million words | 2023-03-29 06:41Update

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Han Xiong Fiction
Han Xiong

He established an unprecedented dignity for the nation. He gave a group the confidence to stand tall for millennia. His country's name became the eternal symbol of a people. There is no difference between the restless souls under the horse's blade and the triumphant ones on the saddle. All lives are equal, and no one has the right to unjustly deprive another. No one can arbitrarily bully the people of Da Han, and no one can plunder and slaughter on the land of Da Han. No matter how powerful our enemies may be, the bloodline of the Han people will eventually inspire us to wield our swords and fight for our own dignity and honor. Let these barbarians from the grasslands witness the bravery of the Han warriors, and let their mountains of corpses and rivers of blood forge the glory of the Han ethnicity. With a

173.28 Million words | 2022-05-09 14:45Update

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Leaping Horse, Great Tang. Fiction
Leaping Horse, Great Tang.

In the fourth year of the Tianbao period, during the prosperous era of the Great Tang Dynasty, An Lushan was rising, while Yang Guozhong held absolute power over the imperial court. Amidst the harmony of music and dance, hidden within the peaceful era, lurked the dawning of bloodshed and chaos. A mere common street urchin emerged from the bustling streets, becoming a prodigy in the world of poetry, as well as a formidable figure in the entire realm. In the presence of an unparalleled beauty, who would dance in splendid garments and feathered robes, for whom was it all for? In the vast realm of the Great Tang, who would determine the rise and fall of the nation?

536.12 Million words | 2021-10-24 01:42Update

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Profligate Son of the Tang Dynasty Fiction
Profligate Son of the Tang Dynasty

The Nine Heavens open the palace gates, nations bow with their attire adorned; The Great Tang of Zhenguan, resplendent in its governance, a land of beauty and splendor; Martial prowess unparalleled, its might echoing throughout the four seas. Upon the Hall of Supreme Ultimate, Li Shimin's formidable presence, reigning over the world; Beneath the Tower of Lingyun, civil and military officials guide the nation, expanding its borders. In this brilliant era of prosperity, amidst the ebb and flow of life's waves, Young Xie Yi, dazed as if a millennium has passed, becomes a prodigal son who has just squandered his entire family fortune...

112.81 Million words | 2021-02-25 19:30Update

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Yuan Family's Decision Fiction
Yuan Family's Decision

Reborn in the Three Kingdoms, I became Yuan Shao's third son, Yuan Shang, by a strange coincidence, right in the midst of the Battle of Guandu! At this moment, the Battle of Guandu was nearing its end. Xu You had already betrayed Yuan Shao, Wuchao's food supply was about to be burned, Zhang He and Gao Lan were about to defect to Cao Cao, Tian Feng was imprisoned, and Ju Shou was trapped in the prison carriage. The 700,000 strong army was on the verge of collapse, and the decline of the prestigious Yuan family seemed inevitable. Having time-traveled back to the Three Kingdoms, would Yuan Shang still follow the course of history and surrender to Cao Cao? The answer is absolutely not! The outcome of the Battle of Guandu and the downfall of the Yuan family will be altered by the efforts of Yuan Shang.

488.13 Million words | 2021-03-28 16:25Update

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The Three Kingdoms: Alone, Different, Few. Fiction
The Three Kingdoms: Alone, Different, Few.

Liu Kun found a rusty bronze mirror in his ancestral house, only to discover that it could unexpectedly connect him to the end of the Han Dynasty. With the support of reality, what kind of waves will Liu Kun create in the waning years of the Han Dynasty? And what is the true origin of this bronze mirror? Does it have other abilities? Please read "The Solitary and Isolated Path of the Three Kingdoms" to find out.

14.56 Million words | 2022-08-27 22:03Update

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This land, I have seized it. Fiction
This land, I have seized it.

Taking over the position of the eleventh emperor of Anping, one day he would be assassinated 1,800 times. Of course, the eleventh emperor hesitated. However, her prime minister was both good-looking and intelligent, which made her reconsider this matter. "Ayi, the palace is so cold. I'll go to your prime minister's residence!" "Ayi, it's even colder in your residence. I'll go to your room!" "Ayi, your room—" "Your Majesty!" The eleventh emperor blinked his eyes. "I'm here!" Unfortunately, her prime minister deceived her, even though he risked his life to make her believe in him. "Ayi, if there's a next life and the prime minister is still you, I will kill you the first time I see you."

58.03 Million words | 2021-06-05 07:06Update

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Rebirth: Subverting the Great Song Dynasty Fiction
Rebirth: Subverting the Great Song Dynasty

I crossed over and became the crown prince, but sadly, I became the crown prince of a fallen country... When the shame of the Jingkang Incident arrived, the prince had to flee Kaifeng. The Jurchens pursued him, and Prince Kang, Zhao Gou, also chased after him. Eventually, he was forced to escape to the northwest, where the powerful minister Zhe Keqiu still held influence... After defeating Zhe Keqiu, he finally took control of the court, gradually developing military strength and economic prosperity. First, he occupied Guanshan and ChuanShu, then he descended south to overthrow Prince Kang, and finally he marched north to defeat the Jin Dynasty... Friends who pass by, please click and take a look. I guarantee it will be thrilling and not disappoint you. In the era of the Northern and Southern Song Dynasties, your favorite heroic figures like Yue Fei, Han Shizhong, and Wang Chongyang are all included, along with a variety of colorful side characters. If you desire the rivers and lakes, they are here. If you seek extraordinary martial arts skills, they exist. Naturally, there are also peerless beauties. Come and take a look, please, (*^__^*)...

390.77 Million words | 2020-11-12 01:25Update

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Disaster to the Great Qing. Fiction
Disaster to the Great Qing.

的子民。——一些爱国之士如是说。 Lu Yifeng is the number one scourge of our Qing Dynasty! I vow not to be human if I don't kill this thief! - So said a certain small pockmark who claimed to have shot 318 rabbits in one day and was known as the "rabbit terminator". Lu Yifeng is a great scourge! We Qing Dynasty will never have peace as long as this scourge exists. - Both the servant and the staunch traitors said the same thing. Lu Yifeng is the epitome of a traitorous official who harms the country and its people throughout history. He eats our Qing dynasty's rice and receives our Qing dynasty's salary, but every action he takes is to dig the foundation of our Qing dynasty's wall, undermine the foundation of our Qing dynasty's house, and harm every virtuous citizen of our Qing dynasty. - So said some patriotic people.

270.38 Million words | 2021-12-13 04:10Update

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Thundering War Soldier Fiction
Thundering War Soldier

Hulei Taiji: A martial art focused on practical combat, alternating between hardness and softness, speed and slowness, with resounding strength. Yen Nianlang: An orphan raised by wolves, who rounded off his edges in society while keeping his wild nature hidden. This is the story of a common soldier, who, through unexpected events, transformed from an ordinary to a legendary soldier, from a forest guard to a determined special forces warrior. This story is highly realistic, but please do not identify with it. I will also never admit it, so it is a fabricated reality.

295.29 Million words | 2023-06-12 05:35Update

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Rebirth: Rise of the Republic Era 2 Fiction
Rebirth: Rise of the Republic Era 2

Your dreams linger deep within the kapok trees. Your love rests on Changzhou Island. We have never met, Yet we reunite today. Because of a man's vow, Because of distant pursuit, The barren fields bathe in blood, The icy glaciers quench the thirst of horses. Staining our youth with crimson, The passion of those years, Marching on tirelessly, commanding authority in all directions, Conquering the world, all for the peacefulness of Huaxia.

559.96 Million words | 2021-07-27 08:51Update

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War of the Ming Dynasty's End Fiction
War of the Ming Dynasty's End

In the late Ming Dynasty, conquering the world, ruling the land, and collecting beautiful women, all in my hands!

82.88 Million words | 2021-05-05 00:29Update

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Step by Step Startled the Tang Dynasty Fiction
Step by Step Startled the Tang Dynasty

Li Ang was transported to an abandoned child raised by a pack of wolves. With his mysterious background, he became entangled in a series of family conflicts, local official struggles, palace power struggles, and ultimately played a crucial role in the An Lushan Rebellion. Various power tactics, betrayals, assassinations, scheming, opportunism, and secret maneuvers abound. This is also an era of openness and grandeur, with beautiful women as stunning as the moon, picturesque landscapes, magnificent poetry, and vibrant spirits. Lifelong friendships that can withstand life and death, heartwarming family bonds, and passionate love stories thread throughout the book, showcasing the fascinating and magnificent image of the prosperous Tang Dynasty from various perspectives. I have already completed

120.55 Million words | 2021-01-29 04:39Update

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