A Family Tree
Grade Levels: 3 - 5
Overview
After exploring a family tree website, students are inspired to research their own family histories.
Objectives
- Students will use vocabulary related to family
history research.
- Students will classify family information.
- Students will research their own ancestry.
Materials
Procedures
- Introduce key vocabulary: ancestors, family tree, roots, surnames
- Work with students in small groups to explore RootsWeb.
Search for information on your own family, explaining each step that you take.
- As students become more familiar with the site, encourage them to ask questions
and help you make decisions.
- After exploring the site, have students gather in small groups to complete
the Family Genealogy Worksheet. Prompt
them to brainstorm as many responses as possible for each category.
- Let students take the activity worksheet home, using it to open a discussion
of family history. Invite them to research their own families at the library,
on the Internet, or by interviewing relatives.
- Have students make presentations about their family histories. These might include family trees, maps, or illustrated reports.
Assessment
Use A Family Tree Checklist to assess students' understanding of how to research family history. Assign a point value to each item.
Extensions
- Explore TeacherVision's Immigration Theme to find a wealth of lessons and resources on the topic.
- Encourage students to write a journal entry describing a day in the life of an immigrating family.
