The Settling of Jamestown
Events That Shaped America Series
What’s inside...
A description of the struggles of the English settlers in the colony of Jamestown, from 1607 to 1698, and their relationship with the neighboring Algonquian Indians. Examines the founding of the English colony at Jamestown, its struggle for survival, and its eventual decline. Includes primary sources, maps, a timeline, focus boxes, a glossary, and an index.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What challenges do you think the settlers faced when they arrived in Jamestown?
Why do you think teamwork was important for the settlers' survival?
How do you think the relationship between the settlers and the Native Americans affected the colony?
What would you have done differently if you were a leader in Jamestown?
How do you think the story of Jamestown helps us understand American history better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by asking your child what they know about Jamestown. This can help set a baseline and spark interest.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the Jamestown setting, asking questions like how they would feel and what they would do in similar situations.
Use the book’s illustrations or maps to help visualize the story and discuss specific details.
Relate the historical events to your child’s experiences, such as working on group projects, to make the content more relatable.
Praise your child's responses and insights to encourage deeper thinking and engagement with the book's themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The settlers in 'The Settling of Jamestown' face numerous challenges but continue to strive for a better life. This narrative showcases their persistent efforts despite hardships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance when they face difficult situations at school or in their personal lives, understanding that persistence can lead to positive outcomes.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The book highlights how the Jamestown settlers had to work together to establish their settlement. The story emphasizes the value of each person’s contribution to the common goal.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of cooperation in group projects or family tasks, highlighting that teamwork often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: As the settlers in Jamestown make errors, they learn and adapt, which is a central theme in the book. It portrays the importance of learning from one's mistakes as a way to improve.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, helping them to grow and better themselves in academic and social settings.
Example Lesson: Courage to explore new opportunities
Explanation: The story of Jamestown is one of exploration and daring, as characters venture into unknown territories and opportunities.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open to new experiences and challenges, whether it's trying a new sport, making new friends, or exploring new areas of interest in their studies.