READING, THINKING, AND WRITING ABOUT HISTORY

This guide presents six research-tested, classroom-ready units of study, complete with detailed teaching instructions, modified primary sources to aid in differentiation, and sample student essays with formative feedback. The units center on argumentative writing, as students tackle questions such as "Were Daniel Shays and his followers rebels or freedom fighters?" and "Was the United States justified in going to war with Mexico in 1846?"

"Learning to write, as the authors argue in this important book, is a complex act of cognition with many moving parts. The tools this book provides&mdash:from graphic organizers, to lesson plans, to the accompanying documents&mdash:demystify the writing process and offer a sequenced path toward attaining proficiency."
—From the Foreword by Sam Wineburg, Margaret Jacks Professor of Education, Stanford University, co-author of Reading Like a Historian

"Reading, Thinking, and Writing About History is a treasure for teachers who care about deep and robust student learning of history. Assuming literate practice to be at the core of history learning and historical practice, the authors provide actual units of history instruction that can be immediately applied to classroom teaching. These units make visible how a cognitive apprenticeship approach enhances history and historical literacy learning and ensure a supported transition to teaching history in accordance with Common Core State Standards. This book is a must for history teachers and teacher educators."
—Elizabeth Moje, Arthur F. Thurnau Professor, School of Education, University of Michigan

"The C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards and the Common Core State Standards challenge students to investigate complex ideas, think critically, and apply knowledge in real world settings. This extraordinary book provides tried-and-true practical tools and step-by-step directions for social studies to meet these goals and prepare students for college, career, and civic life in the 21st century."
—Michelle M. Herczog, president, National Council for the Social Studies