NBC has a new show that provides valuable insight into American History. The show is titled, "Who Do You Think You Are?" At first look, this seems like a celebrity reality show. However, the show is a lesson in the value of primary sources when studying our nation's history. Every 5th and 7th grader in New York State will connect with the show's use of primary sources to tell a story. (Primary and secondary sources are part of the NYS curriculum for both grade levels.)
The first episode researches the history of Sarah Jessica Parker. Her family comes over on the Mayflower, and one of her family members barely escapes the Salem Witch trials. She is amazed at each story she uncovers about her family history. Each turn is gut wrenching, because each generation has a story that will be an example of cause and effect into who she is today.
The second episode researches football star Emit Smith's family. This was a very telling, emotional tale of the ugly sides of segregation and slavery. It is quite moving to see how he reacts to each discovery of the dark side of American History. Classrooms across our state should show this episode to help students connect to our history as a nation.
I found a video stream that can be used in the classroom for teachers that is free. The link is: http://www.hulu.com/watch/134657/who-do-you-think-you-are-emmitt-smith. Or feel free to watch it here.
No comments:
Post a Comment