The West: An Illustrated History for Children
What’s inside...
The West is a story of conquest and colliding ideals, of heroes and villains, and of history and the native Indians. This book accompanies an 8 part series of programmes to be shown in the Autumn of 1996 and the Spring of 1997.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
11-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think life was like for children living in the Wild West?
How do the illustrations help you understand the history of the West?
Can you think of any ways the West has changed from the past to now?
Why do you think it's important to learn about the history of different places like the West?
Which character in the book did you find most interesting and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine living in the time period depicted and ask how their daily life would differ.
Point out specific illustrations and ask your child what they can infer from them about life in the West.
After reading, compare and contrast the historical West with the modern world, focusing on aspects like technology, culture, and environment.
Discuss the significance of learning about history and how it helps us understand the present and shape the future.
Identify with your child the traits of a character they liked and discuss how those traits were helpful or hindered them in the context of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of diversity and inclusion
Explanation: The book explores the various cultures and peoples that have shaped the Western world, highlighting the contributions of diverse groups.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace cultural diversity, understanding that everyone brings valuable perspectives and skills to the community.
Example Lesson: The value of learning from history
Explanation: Key historical events and figures are presented in a way that shows how past decisions shaped the present, teaching children the consequences of actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to analyze their choices and learn from both their experiences and the experiences of others to make better decisions.
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience and innovation
Explanation: The book covers various challenges faced by people in the Western world and how they overcame them through resilience and innovation.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by developing problem-solving skills and perseverance in the face of their own challenges.
Example Lesson: Understanding governance and its impacts
Explanation: The formation and evolution of different forms of government are discussed, illustrating how governance structures impact societies.
Real-World Application: This educates children on the importance of political awareness and participation, inspiring them to be active and informed citizens.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature and its resources
Explanation: The narrative includes how natural resources have been utilized and conserved, teaching the balance between use and preservation.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of environmental stewardship and the practical ways they can contribute to sustainability in their daily lives.