Gathering the Facts

COMPONENT:  The student learns to interview and take notes.

OBJECTIVE:  The student uses aspects of the writing process.

MATERIALS:  computer, pencil, notebook, PowerPoint software

PROCEDURE:  The student will interview parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and other older relatives who will be able to provide information and anecdotes about the family history. Each family member will have a  family group sheet. It will contain genealogical information about the individual. The pages can be decorated with clipart from the relative's time of birth. i.e. 1950s- rock and roll, hula hoop, poodle skirt...

The vital statistics (birth, death, marriage dates) are then to be placed on a pedigree chart.

The children will present their family history book as a PowerPoint presentation.

• Open a blank presentation in PowerPoint

• At the Auto Layout menu, select Organization Chart

• Double click on the Organization Chart

• Click on the top box, highlight Type name Here, and type your name.

• Continue adding information about family until all boxes are filled.

• When tree is finished pull down the FILE menu and choose

• Select All.  

Evaluation:  Students will write and edit anecdotal stories to be added to the family group sheets.

Homework:  Student will complete a family group sheet by downloading a copy (click on family group sheet) and filling in all the pertinent information.

TIPS:  If the child is unable to interview both sides of his family, use one surname line only, or that of the step parent.

Roots Web

Genealogy Instruction

EXTENSION ACTIVITY: Construct a Personal History

• Discuss the lives of famous people and their accomplishments

• Research some famous names using Alta Vista

• Ask students to share their most memorable moments

• Students then complete a Personal History Work Sheet

• Use spell check, students can also use the thesaurus to expand vocabulary

• Edit and publish

• Students share stories

• Stories can be compiled into a class memory book

• Add clip art

• Take students pictures using a digital camera and scan photos into class memory book

• Make a copy for each student