The Spanish Missions of Texas (A True Book)
A true book Series
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
The Spanish Missions of Texas (A True Book) by Megan Gendell provides a comprehensive look at the history and significance of the Spanish missions in Texas. The book explores the establishment of the missions, their impact on the indigenous peoples, and their role in shaping the culture and history of Texas. Through engaging text and vivid photographs, readers gain a deeper understanding of the missions' architecture, daily life, and lasting legacy. This informative and visually stunning book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Texas and the Spanish colonial period.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think life was like for people living in the Spanish missions?
Why were the missions built in Texas, and who built them?
How do you think the missions impacted the native people and the settlers?
What have you learned about the culture and daily activities at the missions?
Can you imagine how the landscape and community might have looked around a mission?
Tip: Role play these questions
To foster a deeper connection with the book, parents can encourage their child to visualize the historical settings described. Ask them to draw a picture of a mission or create a simple map of where the missions were located. Additionally, parents can relate the story to current events or family history, possibly discussing ancestors or locations that share a connection to the themes in the book. This will help children to see the relevance and importance of history in their own lives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding historical significance
Explanation: The book dives into the historical context of the Spanish missions in Texas, explaining their purpose and impact on the region.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing the historical importance of landmarks in their own community and understanding how history shapes the present.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: Through detailed descriptions of life at the missions, the book provides insight into the cultural exchanges between Native Americans and Spanish settlers.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to respect and appreciate diverse cultures, encouraging them to explore and embrace cultural differences in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: The impact of European colonization
Explanation: The book portrays the effects of European colonization on Native American populations, providing a balanced view of both positive and negative outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to analyze and discuss the complexities of colonization and its long-term effects on indigenous people, fostering critical thinking about history.
Example Lesson: Adaptation and survival
Explanation: Stories of how both the Native Americans and Spanish adapted to each other's presence and the environment show resilience and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of adapting to new situations and learning from different experiences to overcome challenges in their lives.
Example Lesson: Value of cooperation
Explanation: The cooperation between the Native Americans and the Spanish in developing the missions is highlighted, showing the benefits of working together toward common goals.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to work collaboratively in team settings, whether in school projects or community tasks, understanding that teamwork can lead to success.