Social Studies: Grades 1 to 5
Note: The list of resources in this section provides an update to Social Studies: A Bibliography for the Elementary Level (1995).
Aboriginal Elders and Community Workers in Schools: A Guide for School Divisions and Their Partners
Adventurers: Hudson's Bay Company: The Epic Story
Air: Climate
An Amish Year. 1st ed.
The Biggest Fish in the Lake
Blackfoot Children and Elders Talk Together. 1st ed.
Boy of the Deeps
Buddha in the Garden
Canada
Canada at the Polls!
Canada: Its Land and People
Canada's Maple Leaf: The Story of Our Flag
The Canadian Forces Snowbirds: 431 Air Demonstration Squadron
The Canadians Series. Rev. ed.
Children Around the World
The City ABC Book
The Composition
Connections Canada
Crazy Canadian Trivia
Dene Games: A Culture and Resource Manual
Discovering Canada
Discovering Canada's Government
Discovering First Peoples and First Contacts
Duncan's Way
Eh? to Zed: A Canadian ABeCedarium
Encyclopedia of British Columbia
Eye on Canada Series
A Fiddle for Angus
Fire: Energy
Firedancers
Flags
Friends! 1st ed.
From the Top of a Grain Elevator. 1st ed.
Great Canadians Series
Historic Communities Series
Jungle Islands: My South Sea Adventure
Junior Atlas of Canada and the World. Rev. ed.
The Just a Minute Omnibus: Glimpses of Our Great Canadian Heritage
Keepers of the Animals: Native Stories and Wildlife Activities for Children. 1st Canadian paperback ed.
Keepers of the Earth: Native American Stories and Environmental Activities for Children
The Kids Book of Canada's Railway and How the CPR Was Built
The Kids Book of the Far North
Land: Territory and Resources
Laura: A Childhood Tale of Laura Secord
Laura Secord's Brave Walk
The Learning Circle: Classroom Activities on First Nations in Canada: Ages 4 to 7
The Learning Circle: Classroom Activities on First Nations in Canada: Ages 8 to 11
Life: People, Fauna and Flora
Maiden of the Mist: A Legend of Niagara Falls
Mothers Are Like That
Native Americans Series
Native Nations of North America Series
Next Stop!
One Is Canada. 1st ed.
Our Beginnings
Our Country, Canada
Our Country: Provinces & Territories Series
The Paperboy
Pa's Harvest: A True Story Told by Ephrem Carrier
The Play Real Game: Facilitator's Kit: Grades 3/4
Rice Is Life. 1st ed.
Saskatchewan Trivia Challenge
A Seaside Alphabet
The Spirit of Canada
Storm at Batoche
Tales of the Amazon: How the Munduruku Aboriginals Live
Tapestry: A Canadian Social Studies Program, Level 1
Tapestry: A Canadian Social Studies Program, Level 2
There Have Always Been Foxes
A Ticket to Series
The Tomb of the Boy King. 1st ed.
Tracing Your Saskatchewan Ancestors: A Guide to the Records and How to Use Them
Uncommon Traveler: Mary Kingsley in Africa
The Voyageurs: Companion Book for Wilderness Journey
Water: Reserves and Networks
We Came to North America Series
When We Go Camping
Where Are We?
Wilderness Journey: Reliving the Adventures of Canada's Voyageurs
Women's History Month: A Celebration of Women's Lives
Yellow Umbrella Books for Early Readers: Level A
Yellow Umbrella Books for Early Readers: Level B
Aboriginal Elders and Community Workers in Schools: A Guide for School Divisions and Their Partners (Print-Non-Fiction). Saskatchewan Education (SSR), 2001. 52 p. ISBN 1-894116-58-5 ($FREE pbk.).
(I/M, SK) The inclusion of elders and other aboriginal resource people in the school program is a beneficial component to many curricula. This resource will help to facilitate that process. Background information is provided about the benefits of involving elders, the traditional role of an aboriginal elder and some of the traditional ceremonies. The majority of the resource stresses the importance of creating a policy to facilitate the program and gives several examples of policies from school divisions. This resource was distributed to all schools in 2001, but additional copies are available from the Planning, Evaluation and Children's Services Branch of Saskatchewan Learning.
Suggested Use: Teacher Reference
Other Use: Canadian Studies; Forestry Studies; Social Studies: Grade 6; Social Studies: Grades 7-9; Social Studies 10/History 10; Social Studies 20/History 20; Wildlife Management
Adventurers: Hudson's Bay Company: The Epic Story (Print-Non-Fiction). Moore, Christopher. Madison Press Books (HBY), 2000. 32 p. ISBN 1-895892-13-9 ($FREE pbk.).
(CAN) The Hudson's Bay Company has had a long connection to the history of Canada, and this commissioned work presents an excellent overview of the company's story. From the voyage of the Nonsuch and the company's founding in 1668 to today's department store empire, the people and events are brought to life by photographs, maps, paintings and drawings. Students will enjoy browsing this short book to learn interesting facts about beaver hats, pemmican, explorers and the company's transformation into the retailer that it is today. While the format makes it appealing to younger students, senior grades will also find the text suitable to their reading level. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3
Other Use: Canadian Studies
Air: Climate (Video). (Transit Across Canada Series). National Film Board of Canada (MGR), 2000. 20 min. Dup. order no. V670.
(CAN) Air takes viewers on a visual tour of the country's regions and seasons, illustrating the consequences of extremes of weather and climate. Viewers are taken from the humid rainforests of British Columbia, to the desert-like badlands of Alberta, from the frosty Arctic where no trees grow, to the fertile farmland of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River region. Colourful maps illustrate the glaciers that covered Toronto 10 000 years ago, while shots of the 1998 ice storm in Central Canada remind viewers of a recent costly catastrophe.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1
Other Use: Science: Middle Level
An Amish Year. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Ammon, Richard and Patrick, Pamela, illus. Atheneum Pubs. (DIS), 2000. unp. ISBN 0-689-82622-2 ($24.95 hdc.).
Accompanied by full-page colour illustrations, this beautiful book follows Anna, a young Amish girl, as she describes life in her community. As Anna goes to school, does her chores and plays, readers see through her eyes what life is like in an Amish community as the seasons unfold.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 1; Grade 3 - Unit 3
The Biggest Fish in the Lake (Print-Fiction). Carney, Margaret and Wilson, Janet, illus. Kids Can Press (UTP), 2001. unp. ISBN 1-55074-720-7 ($15.95 hdc.).
(CAN) The special bond between a grandparent and grandchild is celebrated in this evocative tale. When Grandpa gives his granddaughter a fishing rod for her birthday, she practises fishing all winter long. When summer finally comes, they embark on a fishing trip together. During the trip, the grandchild learns many lessons from her grandpa about fishing and other aspects of life. The quiet pleasures and dramatic thrills of fishing are captured by Janet Wilson's beautiful watercolour illustrations. The themes of love of nature, love of family and a love of special times help to demonstrate that simplicity can be beauty and that excitement can come in many forms.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Blackfoot Children and Elders Talk Together. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Kavasch, E. Barrie. (The Library of Intergenerational Learning: Native Americans Series). Rosen Publishing Group (SBC), 1999. 24 p. ISBN 0-8239-5228-2 ($24.75 hdc.).
(I/M) Although an American resource, this book does discuss the Blackfoot people who live in Canada. Young Blackfoot children and Elders alternately tell the story of their land, celebrations, families, food and the future. Full-page colour photographs accompany the text. The narrative approach will allow the students to become involved. A glossary and an index are included.
Suggested Use: Grade 2 - Unit 2; Grade 3 -
Unit 2
Boy of the Deeps (Print-Fiction). Wallace, Ian. Groundwood Books (GDS), 1999. unp. ISBN 0-88899-356-0 ($16.95 hdc.).
(CAN) Set in Cape Breton at the turn of the century, this powerful account of a boy's first day in the mines is a tribute to the generations of miners who have endangered their lives underground. The story follows James into the pit where the pit ponies live out their lives in the dark. He and his father work a vein of coal and are just relaxing for lunch when the ceiling begins to collapse. Together, they manage to dig their way out and join their companions. Wallace conveys a sense of community among the miners, united by both the dangers of their work and their dependence on it. The evocative and detailed art work enhances this story of the danger, drama and laborious efforts of coal miners.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 1; Grade 5 -
Unit 3
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Buddha in the Garden (Print-Fiction). Bouchard, Dave and Huang, Zhong-Yang, illus. Raincoast Books (RAI), 2001. 31 p. ISBN 1-55192-452-8 ($19.95 hdc.).
(CAN) The story of traditional Buddhist enlightenment is told through the story of a young boy who is abandoned and comes to live with monks in a Buddhist temple. He becomes the gardener of the temple and befriends an old, blind monk who meditates in the garden. The two friends soon realize that the keys to enlightenment are not in the far-off lands where the monks have been searching. Instead, they are revealed close to home. An illustrator note at the end of the story helps to authenticate the message behind this tale. This is the fourth book in the "Chinese Legends" series by David Bouchard and Zhong-Yang Huang.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 1
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Canada (Print-Non-Fiction). Marx, David R. (Rookie Read-About Geography Series). Children's Press (SCH), 2000. 31 p. ISBN 0-516-27083-4 ($7.95 pbk.).
(CAN) Colourful pictures, big print and a simple text will keep younger students interested when this resource is used. The small format will also appeal to students as they learn about the land, history, people and industries of Canada. Full-page colour photographs are used to illustrate the topics being discussed, whether it is farming on the plains, children in Nunavut or French Canadians in Quebec City. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1; Grade 2 - Unit 1; Grade 2 - Unit 3
Canada at the Polls! (Kit). Elections Canada (ELEC), 2001. No order number is required. ($FREE kit).
The kit includes the following:
- Canada's Electoral System
- I Can Vote!: A User-Friendly Guide to Voting in Canada
- Canada at the Polls! (teacher's binder)
- Exploring Canada's Electoral System (CD-ROM)
- Poster
- polling booth
- ballot box.
(CAN) The latest version of this excellent resource can be used at several grade levels. Teachers and/or students will find the information, materials and simulations contained within the kit pertinent to units of study at the Grades 5, 8, 10 and 12 levels. All the necessary background information is provided to assist students in understanding our electoral system and running a simulated election.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 4
Other Use: Canadian Studies; Social Studies: Grades 7-9; Social Studies 10/History 10
Canada: Its Land and People (CD-ROM). Reidmore Books (NEL), 2000. ISBN 1-895073-12-X ($81.45).
(CAN) This resource has been designed as a replacement for the 1995 edition of the print version. The CD-ROM allows easy access to the updated material. Animations and interactive games are also included. The CD is divided into "chapters", that are arranged by geographical regions and feature stories about families in each area.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3; Grade 5 - Unit 4
Canada's Maple Leaf: The Story of Our Flag (Print-Non-Fiction). Owens, Ann-Maureen and Yealland, Jane. Kids Can Press (LRDC), 1999. 32 p. Order no. 5290 ($4.85 pbk.).
(CAN) Within this short book, students will find a discussion related to the history of flags in Canada and how the current flag evolved. The use of cartoon illustrations adds to the books appeal. Several activities related to flags are included. Students can learn how to make their own flag and flag pole or how to send secret flag messages. Also included is a section dealing with proper flag etiquette. The combination of humour, excellent drawings, a readable text and fun activities will make this a popular resource. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1
The Canadian Forces Snowbirds: 431 Air Demonstration Squadron (Print-Non-Fiction). Oberle, Lora Polack. (Serving Your Country Series). Capstone Press, Inc. (KRS), 2001. 48 p. ISBN 0-7368-0774-8 ($27.20 hdc.).
(CAN) The Snowbirds have been an enduring symbol of Canada for many years, and this resource presents a concise overview of the aerobatics team. The history of the team, the planes they fly, the manoeuvres they perform and their future are all discussed. The colour photographs showing the Snowbirds in action are very effective. An index and a glossary are included.
Suggested Use: Grade 4 - Unit 1; Grade 5 -
Unit 1
The Canadians Series. Rev. ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Fitzhenry & Whiteside Ltd. (FHW), 64 p. Order numbers follow. ($8.95 pbk.).
Recommended titles in this series include the following:
| Alexander Graham Bell | ISBN 1-55041-463-1 |
| Crowfoot | ISBN 1-55041-467-4 |
| John A. Macdonald | ISBN 1-55041-479-8 |
| Louis Riel | ISBN 1-55041-465-8 |
| Lucy Maud Montgomery | ISBN 1-55041-461-5 |
| Nellie McClung | ISBN 1-55041-477-9 |
| Wilfrid Laurier | ISBN 1-55041-481-X. |
(CAN) These titles are all part of a revised edition of this classic series. While the changes have been minimal, the re-release of this series serves to highlight the need for accessible information about Canadians. The numerous illustrations and easy readability make these books attractive to many grade levels. The material is not overwhelming and could serve as an incentive to students to delve deeper into other resources.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1
Other Use: Canadian Studies
Children Around the World (Print-Non-Fiction). Montanari, Donata. Kids Can Press (LRDC), 2001. unp. Order no. 6012 ($11.15 hdc.).
(CAN) This is a bright, easy-to-read book with interesting information and colourful illustrations about children in various cultures around the world. Each two-page spread introduces a child from a country such as Tanzania, China, Bolivia and Canada (Nunavut) who talk about what there life is like. The short groupings of words will help to keep the student's attention. It is a book for and about children.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1; Grade 3 -
Unit 3
The City ABC Book (Print-Non-Fiction). Milich, Zoran. Kids Can Press (UTP), 2001. unp. ISBN 1-55074-942-0 ($15.95 hdc.).
(CAN) Zoran Milich is an award-winning photojournalist who, after the birth of his daughter, became fascinated with the way children see the world. The City ABC Book was inspired by that fascination and by his daily walks through his Toronto neighbourhood. A keen eye and a little imagination are the ingredients needed to discover a secret world of letters hidden in the urban architecture of a bustling city. Black-and-white photographs with the letters of the alphabet highlighted in red make this a perfect book for students to see their local community in a different way.
Suggested Use: Grade 2 - Unit 1
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
The Composition (Print-Fiction). Skarmeta, Antonio and Ruano, Alfonso, illus. Groundwood Books (LRDC), 2000. unp. Order no. 11957 ($16.00 hdc.).
The Composition, set in South America, tells of nine-year-old Pedro's solution to a military-sponsored essay that is designed to betray the political views of the school children's parents. Expressive paintings highlight the connection between the landscape and Pedro's growing awareness of the need to survive. The book ends with a sense of tenuous victory. Pedro has kept his parents' anti-fascist stance a secret by weaving a bit of fiction into his composition. How long their safety will last is left to the reader's imagination. The concept of dictatorship is explained at the end of the book. Some pre-teaching of vocabulary and of the topic of dictatorship will have to be introduced before sharing this book with students.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 4; Grade 5 -
Unit 4
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Connections Canada (Print-Non-Fiction). Francis, Daniel. (Outlooks Series). Oxford University Press (LRDC), 2000. 204 p. Order no. 5035 ($35.65 hdc.).
(CAN) Although written for the British Columbia market, this resource provides a good overview of Canada. The geography, history, economy, culture and aboriginal people are all covered in this well-illustrated book. Throughout the resource, there are many activities for students to try and there are questions for further research. Maps, photographs, drawings and charts add to the book's appeal. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3; Grade 5 - Unit 4
Crazy Canadian Trivia (Print-Non-Fiction). Hancock, Pat and Kostic, Dimitrije, illus. Scholastic Canada Ltd. (SCH), 2000. 124 p. ISBN 0-439-98722-9 ($5.99 pbk.).
(CAN) Though not specifically related to curriculum, this is the type of resource that students will enjoy browsing. As a supplement to the study of Canada, the book provides many interesting facts about our country and the people in it. The pictures and the writing style are humourous and the trivia discussed does bring to light some of the strangest and most unbelievable facts about Canada. The bits of trivia could also be used as an incentive to further research.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 -
Unit 2
CrossCountry Canada Platinum. School ed. (CD-ROM). Ingenuity Works (DID), 2000. Order no. 6004H ($49.95).
(CAN) With this program, students are able to simulate the pick up and delivery of goods to 79 Canadian cities. A knowledge and understanding of Canadian geography is the result of being one of the truck drivers taking the commodities from one Canadian city to another. The nature of Canada's resources and industry are revealed through video clips. Map reading, decision making, problem solving and math skills are all part of this program.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 -
Unit 3
Dene Games: A Culture and Resource Manual (Kit). Heine, Michael. (Traditional Aboriginal Sport Coaching Resources Series). Sport North Federation (SPO), 1999. ISBN 1-894474-00-7 ($50.00 kit).
(CAN, I/M) The traditional games of the Northwest Territories Dene are profiled in this video. Emphasis is also placed on the importance of these games to preserve Dene culture. The video looks at five of these sports in detail while the print resource gives step-by-step instructions on how to play several traditional games. Photographs and drawings are used in the book to illustrate the games under discussion.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 2
Other Use: Physical Education: Grades 6 to 9; Social Studies: Grades 7-9
Discovering Canada (Print-Non-Fiction). Gutsole, Marlene and Gutsole, Reginald. (Discovery Series). Oxford University Press (LRDC), 2000. 80 p. Order no. 2936 ($15.80 pbk.).
(CAN) This resource provides an excellent overview of Canada. The first few chapters examine the geography of Canada. Sections on maps, rivers, landforms and resources are included. The Government of Canada is also introduced. The remainder of the book looks at each of the provinces and territories, describing their land, climate and resources. Maps, drawings and colour photographs are used to complement the concise text. A glossary is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3; Grade 5 - Unit 4
Discovering Canada's Government (Print-Non-Fiction). Francis, Daniel. (Discovery Series). Oxford University Press (LRDC), 2001. 80 p. Order no. 2318 ($16.15 pbk.).
Using an excellent combination of readable text, photographs, maps and charts, this resource provides a good overview to Canada's government. Topics such as elections, voting, parliament, the Prime Minister, the role of taxes, aboriginal government and being an activist are all covered in short three-to-four-page sections. The book is very visually appealing and will be a worthy addition to resources related to Canada's government. An index and a glossary are included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 4
Discovering First Peoples and First Contacts (Print-Non-Fiction). Francis, Daniel. (Discovery Series). Oxford University Press (LRDC), 2000. 64 p. Order no. 3581 ($15.80 pbk.).
(CAN, I/M) The culture of the aboriginal people before contact with Europeans is covered in this visually appealing book. Students will also find excellent information about Canada's exploration, the fur trade and the role of aboriginal people in both these areas. The book concludes with a chapter looking at aboriginal people today. The use of maps, drawings, paintings and colour photographs complements the concise text. A glossary is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 2
Other Use: Native Studies: Grade 10
Duncan's Way (Print-Fiction). Wallace, Ian. Groundwood Books (LRDC), 2000. unp. Order no. 11378 ($16.00 hdc.).
(CAN) For seven generations, Duncan's family has fished off the coast of Newfoundland. Now the fish are gone, and with them the old way of life. Duncan notices that his father is spending the days staring out to sea, watching television and baking bread and pies. Many families have left town in search of work elsewhere. Even Duncan's mother is beginning to suggest that they, too, join the exodus to the mainland. One day, Duncan goes to visit his teacher, and together they come up with the idea of Duncan's father combining his baking skills and his experience as a ship's skipper to create a travelling bakery. This tale of hope portrays leadership qualities in Duncan, a convincing hero. The breathtaking watercolours depict the spirit of the family and the Newfoundland landscape.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 1; Grade 3 - Unit 3; Grade 3 - Unit 4
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Eh? to Zed: A Canadian ABeCedarium (Print-Non-Fiction). Major, Kevin and Daniel, Alan, illus. Red Deer Press (LRDC), 2000. unp. Order no. 2765 ($19.85 hdc.).
(CAN) This creative new alphabet book by Kevin Major and Alan Daniel is a worthy contribution to the genre. Eh? to Zed presents an intelligent, inclusive, and sometimes humourous view of Canadian identity. Four words for each letter of the alphabet march across the tops of the pages in rhyming verse while diverse images illustrate them. The words include nationally known regional figures such as Bonhomme, Ogopogo and Evangeline, and famous discoveries such as insulin. An engagingly written and well-designed section at the end of the book gives "morsels of information" about the 104 words the author chose to include. The illustrator expands this glossary with brief notes on the inspiration for many of his illustrations. Because this book says much more about our country than it does about learning letters, it will work better with eight-to-ten-year-olds than with children in Grades 1 or 2. This book would be a great starter book for a Canadian social studies program.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Encyclopedia of British Columbia (Print-Non-Fiction). Francis, Daniel, ed. Harbour Publishing Co. Ltd. (HPCL), 2000. 806 p. ISBN 1-55017-200-X ($79.95 hdc.).
(CAN) This beautifully illustrated and well-formatted book provides an A-to-Z look at British Columbia. While some of the articles may be too specific to British Columbia, many of the others will have an appeal to all provinces. Topics such as First Nations, Japanese Canadians, salmon and logging will be of use at several grade levels. An index is included.
The book also comes with the Interactive Encyclopedia of British Columbia, which contains the entire text and all the illustrations from the print version combined with multi-media enhancements. The CD-ROM version can also be accessed via the Internet at www.knowbc.com. This subscription website is continuously updated.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3; Grade 5 - Unit 4
Other Use: Canadian Studies
Eye on Canada Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Weigl Educational Publishers (LRDC), 32 p. Order numbers follow. ($23.00 hdc.).
Recommended titles in this series include the following:
| Alberta | Order no. 5913 |
| British Columbia | Order no. 5914 |
| Manitoba | Order no. 5915 |
| New Brunswick | Order no. 5916 |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | Order no. 5917 |
| Northwest Territories | Order no. 5918 |
| Nova Scotia | Order no. 5919 |
| Nunavut | Order no. 5920 |
| Ontario | Order no. 5921 |
| Prince Edward Island | Order no. 5922 |
| Quebec | Order no. 5923 |
| Saskatchewan | Order no. 5939 |
| Yukon | Order no. 5940. |
(CAN) Through the use of colourful photographs, maps and an interesting text, this series captures an excellent snap shot of the provinces and territories of Canada. Each book gives a brief overview of the land, resources, economy, aboriginal people, history, politics, sports and culture. Connections are made to relevant websites (unevaluated by Saskatchewan Learning). An index and a glossary are included.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3; Grade 5 - Unit 4
A Fiddle for Angus (Print-Fiction). Wilson, Budge and Tooke, Susan, illus. Tundra Books Inc. (RAN), 2001. unp. ISBN 0-88776-500-9 ($18.99 hdc.).
(CAN) Angus's family lives in Cape Breton. They have an orchestra, and each member of the family plays or sings while Angus hums along. Angus soon tires of just humming, and is given the opportunity to choose an instrument to learn. He sets out to find one that has all his favourite sounds from the wind, the sea and the hillside. Eventually, at a "ceilidh" Angus hears a violin, and he decides that it will be the instrument for him. It takes time and lots of practice before he succeeds, but he eventually is ready to play with the rest of his family. This delightful book brings the rich musical tradition of Cape Breton alive.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 1
Other Use: Arts Education: Elementary Level; English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Fire: Energy (Video). (Transit Across Canada Series). National Film Board of Canada (MGR), 2000. 22 min. Dup. order no. V675.
(CAN) Fire discusses Canada's rich energy resources-natural wealth that provides a very good standard of living for Canadians. Wind, water, sun, oil, uranium and natural gas are transformed into fuel for cars, heat for homes and power for appliances. Canadians are among the largest energy consumers on earth. Despite vast reserves of oil and water, and a small population, Canadians are beginning to realize that their quality of life also depends on the quality of the environment.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 -
Unit 3
Other Use: Science: Middle Level;
Science 10
Firedancers (Print-Non-Fiction). Waboose, Jan Bordeaux and Taylor, C. J., illus. Stoddart Publishing Co. Ltd. (LRDC), 1999. unp. Order no. 4298 ($23.25 hdc.).
(CAN, I/M) This wonderful book depicts the coming-of-age story of a young Ojibway girl. Fast One, as the grandmother calls her, is taken by her grandmother to dance on Smooth Rock Island. As the young girl and her grandmother dance by the fire, the spirits of the past join them in a dance that connects them to nature, to the girl's grandfather and to generations of ancestors who have danced there before. The messages of continuity and intergenerational love are demonstrated in this heartwarming story.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Flags (Print-Fiction). Trottier, Maxine and Morin, Paul, illus. Stoddart Publishing Co. Ltd. (GDS), 1999. unp. ISBN 0-7737-3136-9 ($19.95 hdc.).
(CAN) Maxine Trottier has set her picture book Flags in the period of time surrounding the internment of Japanese-Canadians during World War II. This exquisitely sad and beautiful book tells of the friendship between Mary, a prairie girl visiting her grandmother for the summer, and Mr. Hiroshi, the next-door neighbour who shares his garden with her until he is interned with the other Japanese in the area. When Mary says goodbye to Mr. Hiroshi, she promises to look after his garden. She keeps her promise until the house is sold, and then honours the friendship by transplanting two of his irises-a variety called flags-in the soil of her prairie home. This is a powerful retelling of a dark incident in Canadian history. Paul Morin's illustrations perfectly complement the text. His colours are bold, and the images are simply but beautifully presented. To put the story in context for children unfamiliar with the events, a well-written author's note at the end of the text may be discussed before sharing.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 2; Grade 2 -
Unit 3
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Friends! 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Scott, Elaine. Atheneum Pubs. (LRDC), 2000. unp. Order no. 2950 ($21.90 hdc.).
The importance of making friends and being a friend is dealt with in this excellent resource. The use of real individuals in the colour photographs will allow students to relate to the book while the text will encourage students to think about their own situations and experiences. Areas such as friends helping each other, sharing secrets and solving their disagreements are dealt with in a sensitive manner.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1; Grade 1 -
Unit 4
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
From the Top of a Grain Elevator. 1st ed. (Print-Anthology). Nickel, Barbara and Thiessen, Kathy, illus. Beach Holme Publishing Ltd. (BHL), 1999. 62 p. ISBN 0-88878-397-3 ($8.95 pbk.).
(SK) Award-winning Canadian poet and playwright Barbara Nickel celebrates the sights and sounds of her prairie roots in this collection of poems. The book is organized into the seasons with each season describing the slough and slough activities for each cycle. In addition, the author includes poems about food, weather, animals, birds and about growing up prairie style. Kathy Thiessen's black-and-white etchings perfectly complement the verse. Notes at the end of the book explain how Nickel experimented with rhythm and poem form. Students may use this as a take-off point for writing their own poetry. A short glossary of Saskatchewan vocabulary is also included.
Suggested Use: Grade 4 - Unit 1
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Great Canadians Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Weigl Educational Publishers (SBC), 2000. 48 p. Order numbers follow. ($27.45 hdc.).
Newly recommended titles in this series include the following:
| Entertainers | ISBN 1-896990-07-X |
| Humanitarians | ISBN 1-896990-88-6 |
| Inventors | ISBN 1-896990-47-9 |
| Prime Ministers | ISBN 1-896990-84-3 |
| Singers | ISBN 1-896990-05-3 |
| Visual & Performing Artists | ISBN 1-896990-86-X. |
| Writers | ISBN 1-896990-90-8 |
(CAN) This series highlights Canadians in a variety of fields, from sports to business. For each of the individuals covered there is a chronology of key events, a look at their early life, the skills they needed and developed and their accomplishments. The text is easily read and the many colour photographs assist in making the text appealing. An index and a glossary are included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3; Grade 5 - Unit 4
Historic Communities Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Kalman, Bobbie and Levigne, Heather. Crabtree Publishing Company (CRA), 2001. 32 p. Order numbers follow. ($19.16 hdc.).
Recommended titles in this series include the following:
| Classroom Games | ISBN 0-86505-440-1 |
| Pioneer Recipes | ISBN 0-86505-438-X |
| Schoolyard Games | ISBN 0-86505-441-X |
| Travel in the Early Days | ISBN 0-86505-442-8. |
(CAN) The colourful pictures and photographs with the easy-to-read text make this an attractive series. The focus tends to be on the United States, but there is sufficient coverage of Canada to make the series useful to Saskatchewan students. Each book provides excellent background information as well as activities where the students can recreate the games or recipes from historical times. An index and a glossary are provided in each book.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 2; Grade 2 - Unit 2; Grade 3 - Unit 2
Jungle Islands: My South Sea Adventure (Print-Non-Fiction). Coffey, Maria and Pearson, Debora. (Travel Adventure Books Series). Annick Press (FIR), 2000. 88 p. ISBN 1-55037-597-0 ($26.95 hdc.).
(CAN) Adventure travel books are usually aimed at an adult audience, but this resource is ideal for use at the Grade 3 or Grade 7 level. At the Elementary Level, it can be read to the students to allow them to experience the true-life adventures of the author and her husband as they kayak through the Solomon Islands. The excellent colour photographs bring the story to life. Jungle Islands provides a window into a fascinating world of lush tropical islands, remote villages, jungle, traditional leaf huts, the beauty of the South Pacific Ocean and the people who live there. An index is provided.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 3
Other Use: Social Studies: Grades 7-9
Junior Atlas of Canada and the World. Rev. ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Boreham, Brenda and Mumford, Diana. Pacific Edge Publishing (LRDC), 2002. 58 p. Order no. 5891 ($22.10 pbk.).
(CAN) The material in this atlas is presented in a simple user friendly manner that is very accessible to students in Grades 3 to 5. The layout is attractive with a nice mix of maps, photos, drawings and facts. Each province and territory has a two-page spread that presents a map, includes a key to industries labelled on the map, highlights the official symbols and presents the key facts about the area. In addition, there are political and geographic maps for each of the continents and Canada. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 3; Grade 4 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 1
The Just a Minute Omnibus: Glimpses of Our Great Canadian Heritage (Print-Non-Fiction). Boulton, Marsha. McArthur & Company (HCP), 2000. 579 p. ISBN 1-55278-151-8 ($24.95 hdc.).
(CAN) This is an excellent resource to use for interesting background information about Canada. The book contains over 150 stories from our past that will both entertain and surprise the reader. Each of the short articles deals with the individuals and events that have made our country great, and reveals new and exciting elements about our heritage. Organized by theme, there are stories related to immigration, heroes and scoundrels, upstarts, herstory, sports, adventure, and the arts. The types of stories range from the origins of the McIntosh apple, to the creator of Superman and the ideas of Marshall McLuhan.
Suggested Use: Grade 5; Teacher Reference
Other Use: Canadian Studies; English Language Arts 10
Keepers of the Animals: Native Stories and Wildlife Activities for Children. 1st Canadian paperback ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Caduto, Michael J. and Bruchac, Joseph. Fifth House Publishers (LRDC), 2001. 266 p. Order no. 114 ($21.80 pbk.).
(CAN) Now available in paperback, 27 aboriginal stories, each with related activities, promote responsible stewardship toward all creatures on earth, including human beings. This resource has the potential for use in a variety of subject areas. Included are a table of contents, general index, index of activities by topic, glossary and pronunciation key, an other titles of other versions of the stories.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level; Science: Elementary Level; Science: Middle Level
Keepers of the Earth: Native American Stories and Environmental Activities for Children (Print-Non-Fiction). Caduto, Michael J. and Bruchac, Joseph. Fifth House Publishers (FHW), 1999. 209 p. ISBN 1-894004-38-8 ($24.95 pbk.).
(CAN) This resource was originally published in 1988, and it is now available in paperback. It encourages understanding and learning of North American Aboriginal and Inuit cultures through a variety of activities that include the themes of creation, fire, earth, wind and sky. Each activity section indicates concepts, goals, age level, procedure and an appropriate indoor or outdoor location. Twenty-one legends with suggestions for discussion also make this a useful resource for the listening and speaking strands of English language arts. Black-and-white photographs and illustrations enhance the text. A table of contents, glossary and index are included.
Suggested Use: Grade 4 - Unit 2; Grade 5 -
Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level; Native Studies: Grade 10; Native Studies: Grade 11; Science: Elementary Level; Science: Middle Level
The Kids Book of Canada's Railway and How the CPR Was Built (Print-Non-Fiction). Hodge, Deborah and Mantha, John, illus. Kids Can Press (UTP), 2000. 48 p. ISBN 1-55074-526-3 ($18.95 hdc.).
(CAN) The completion of the CPR in 1885 has long been viewed as the event that tied Canada together and created a true nation. The story of the building of this railway is retold in this book through the use of beautiful illustrations and an interesting text. Each two-page chapter contains several illustrations and an easy-to-read text on topics such as surveying, the navvies, battle on the prairies, the last spike, maintaining the track, trains over time and Canada today. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 2
The Kids Book of the Far North (Print-Non-Fiction). Love, Ann, Drake, Jane and Bouchard, Jocelyne, illus. Kids Can Press (UTP), 2000. 48 p. ISBN 1-55074-563-8 ($18.95 hdc.).
(CAN, I/M) This book is about the top of the world, a region shared by eight countries. Through the use of excellent illustrations and a concise text, students can learn about many elements of the Arctic regions. Within the major topical headings of the environment, wildlife, history and people are several two-page spreads. Topics such as the polar sky, sea creatures, reindeer herders, explorers and Inuit hunters are covered. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3
Land: Territory and Resources (Video). (Transit Across Canada Series). National Film Board of Canada (MGR), 2000. 25 min. Dup. order no. V676.
(CAN) Land looks at the six distinct physical regions of Canada that are made up of mountains, plains, forests, vast coastlines and northern ice floes. Although Canada is the second largest country in the world, most of the population live on less than one per cent of the land.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 -
Unit 3
Other Use: Canadian Studies
Laura: A Childhood Tale of Laura Secord (Print-Fiction). Trottier, Maxine and Reczuch, Karen, illus. Scholastic Canada Ltd. (SCH), 2000. 28 p. ISBN 0-439-98724-5 ($19.99 hdc.).
(CAN) This is a fictionalized account of the early life of Laura Secord. A young Laura is waiting for her cow, Peg, to give birth. One day Peg goes missing, and Laura bravely searches through the woods for her. Laura discovers Peg, but Peg has died giving birth, and the newborn calf is alone. Laura bravely leads it home through the dark forest. Many aspects of colonial life are mentioned briefly in this easily read book. The illustrations offer vivid descriptions of the pioneer lifestyle, landscape, clothing and dwellings. This is a charming little story that could serve as a good lead-in to the study of Canadian heroes.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 4
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Laura Secord's Brave Walk (Print-Fiction). Crook, Connie Brummel and Lawrason, June, illus. Second Story Press (SST), 2000. unp. ISBN 1-896764-34-7 ($18.95 hdc.).
(CAN) One of Canada's more legendary heroes is Laura Secord. This picture book retells her story with an interesting text and colourful full-page drawings. The story can serve as a threshold into a more detailed study of Canada's role during the War of 1812 and some of the unsung heroes from our past.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 -
Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
The Learning Circle: Classroom Activities on First Nations in Canada: Ages 4 to 7 (Print-Non-Fiction). Harvey McCue and Associates. Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Canada (INA), 1999. 60 p. ISBN 0-662-26694-3. ($FREE booklet).
(CAN, I/M) Topics such as storytelling, the seasons, sharing and games are covered in this excellent booklet. Following a brief discussion about the objectives, each topic has several simple, but effective exercises, projects and activities that will encourage students to learn more about aboriginal people. The activities range from a single lesson to projects that will take several days.
Additional information and teaching suggestions can be downloaded from the teacher's section of the Aboriginal and Northern Affairs website at http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ks/english/12000_e.html.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 2; Grade 2 - Unit 2; Teacher Reference
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
The Learning Circle: Classroom Activities on First Nations in Canada: Ages 8 to 11 (Print-Non-Fiction). Harvey McCue and Associates. Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Canada (INA), 2000. 67 p. ISBN 0-662-28448-8. ($FREE booklet).
(CAN, I/M) Topics such as transportation, traditional dwellings, reserves, the family, Elders, and First Nations' heroes are covered in this excellent booklet. Following a brief discussion about the objectives, each topic has several simple, but effective exercises, projects and activities that will encourage students to learn more about aboriginal people. The activities range from a single lesson to projects that will take several days.
Additional information and teaching suggestions can be downloaded from the teacher's section of the Aboriginal and Northern Affairs website at
http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/ks/english/
12000_e.html.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 2; Grade 4 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Teacher Reference
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Life: People, Fauna and Flora (Video). (Transit Across Canada Series). National Film Board of Canada (MGR), 2000. 27 min. Dup. order no. V677.
(CAN) This program highlights some fascinating aspects of Canadian life by examining the origins of its people, flora and fauna. Canada's cultural diversity developed from waves of immigration that began thousands of years ago. The size and ruggedness of the land has made it a challenge to those who chose to make Canada their home.
A teacher's guide is available from Media Group.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3
Other Use: Canadian Studies
Maiden of the Mist: A Legend of Niagara Falls (Print-Non-Fiction). Charles, Veronika Martenova. Stoddart Publishing Co. Ltd. (GDS), 2001. unp. ISBN 0-7737-6207-8 ($9.95 pbk.).
(CAN, I/M) For many years the legend of a young Seneca girl has been told by Europeans and aboriginal people as a way of explaining the formation of Niagara Falls. In this retelling of the legend, the author has stressed the Iroquois version in which the young girl is a strong heroine acting of her own free will. Beautiful drawings are used to illustrate the story.
Suggested Use: Grade 2 - Unit 4
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Mothers Are Like That (Print-Non-Fiction). Carrick, Carol and Carrick, Paul, illus. Houghton Mifflin Company (ALL), 2000. unp. ISBN 0-395-88351-2 ($22.95 hdc.).
This reassuring picture book quietly praises mothers of all species, from a chicken guarding an egg-filled nest to a woman tucking her baby into bed at night. The soft, realistic acrylic paintings of familiar animals-sheep, cows, horses, ducks, raccoons and dogs done in double-paged spreads add to the beauty of this tender story.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level; Kindergarten; Science: Elementary Level
Native Americans Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Ansary, Mir Tamim. Heinemann Educational Bks (KRS), 2000. 32 p. Order numbers follow. ($25.50 hdc.).
Recommended titles in this series include the following:
| Arctic Peoples | ISBN 1-57572-920-2 |
| Northwest Coast Aboriginals | ISBN 1-57572-921-0. |
(I/M) Each of these titles presents a very visual and concise look at aboriginal people within a geographical area. The traditional cultures are described as well as contact with Europeans, life today and famous people of the community. Maps, photographs and drawings are combined with the easy-to-read text to create an appealing resource. An index and a glossary are included in each book.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 2; Grade 5 -
Unit 2
Native Nations of North America Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Kalman, Bobbie. Crabtree Publishing Company (CRA), 2001. 32 p. Order numbers follow. ($8.96 pbk.).
Recommended titles in this series include the following:
| Life in a Longhouse Village | ISBN 0-7787-0462-9 |
| Life in a Plains Camp | ISBN 0-7787-0461-0 |
| Nations of the Plains | ISBN 0-7787-0460-2 |
| Native Homes | ISBN 0-7787-0463-7. |
(CAN, I/M) In this beautifully illustrated series, the author has captured the key information that students need for an understanding about traditional aboriginal life in North America. The text is easy to read and the full-colour drawings and paintings are very effective in showing daily life. Each two-page spread presents information on topics such as camp society, women's roles, Pueblo apartments, beliefs and ceremonies, Plains communication, belonging to the land and changes. An index is provided.
Suggested Use: Grade 4 - Unit 2; Grade 5 -
Unit 2
Other Use: Native Studies: Grade 10; Social Studies: Grades 7-9
Next Stop! (Print-Fiction). Ellis, Sarah and Ohi, Ruth, illus. Fitzhenry & Whiteside Ltd. (FHW), 2000. unp. ISBN 1-55041-539-5 ($17.95 hdc.).
(CAN) In this picture book, young Claire helps the bus driver announce the stops on his busy city route. Many different people get on and off the bus providing an interesting glimpse into the life of a big city. With Claire's mother and father forming part of the story, the book provides a good connection to families.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1; Grade 2 -
Unit 3
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
One Is Canada. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Trottier, Maxine and Slavin, Bill, illus. HarperCollins Canada Ltd. (LRDC), 1999. unp. Order no. 5419 ($12.55 hdc.).
(CAN) This clever, repetitive counting book offers Canadian facts for elementary readers. Each number is carefully chosen and explained, with full-page colour illustrations that support the textual concept. The Five Great Lakes, The Six Nations, The Group of Seven-each number visits a chapter in Canada's history. One Is Canada celebrates the geography and people of Canada as a source of basic information, but it is also a delight for the ear and the eye. The author provides a brief page of additional notes on Canada at the end of the book.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Our Beginnings (Print-Non-Fiction). Sterling, Sharon. (Outlooks Series). Oxford University Press (OUP), 2000. 204 p. ISBN 0-19-541431-4 ($40.81 hdc.).
(CAN, I/M) Although this book was produced to support the British Columbia curriculum, there is enough information applicable to Saskatchewan to recommend it. The emphasis of the book is on an investigation into the time before there was a country called Canada. The history and culture of the aboriginal people are the key themes stressed. The exploration of Canada and contact between the Europeans and aboriginal people are also discussed. In addition to the maps, drawings, paintings and photographs, there are suggestions for projects, ideas on how to make a difference and questions to encourage critical thought. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3; Grade 5 - Unit 4
Our Country, Canada (Print-Non-Fiction). Cairo, Mary and Soncin, Luci. Duval House Publishing (LRDC), 2001. 140 p. Order no. 5895 ($28.00 hdc.).
(CAN) By combining colourful maps, an easy-to-follow layout, colour photographs, drawings and tables along with a readable text, this resource does an excellent job of describing Canada. The book offers individual chapters, on each of Canada's physical geographic regions. Within each of these chapters the human and economic elements are related to the physical geography. Sections that encourage students to "do, discuss and discover" add to the book's appeal. In addition to the information about each geographic region, there are chapters that give the basic facts about each province, discuss provincial governments and describe the infrastructure that is needed to keep Canada running. An index and a glossary are included.
The Blackline Masters Package that accompanies the book contains several outline maps for the geographic regions and provinces of Canada. Several student activities are also included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 3; Grade 5 - Unit 4
Our Country: Provinces & Territories Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Weihs, Jean Allison, Robert, illus. and Riddle, Cameron, illus. Mod Publishing (MPB), 2000. 28 p. Order numbers follow. ($11.95 pbk.).
Recommended titles in this series include the following:
| British Columbia | ISBN 1-894461-11-8 |
| Nunavut: Our Land | ISBN 1-894461-09-6 |
| Ontario | ISBN 1-894461-10-X. |
(CAN) Each of these short books provides basic background information about the province or territory. Using an easy-to-read text as well as line drawings and photographs, each book looks at the land, people, government, wildlife and economy. The concise format will allow students to easily find the information they need. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 2; Grade 5 - Unit 3; Grade 5 - Unit 4
The Paperboy (Video). Pilkey, Dave. Weston Woods (MCN), 2000. 10 min. Order no. MPV390V ($95.00).
Based on the Caldecott Honour book of the same title, this video tells the story of a young paperboy whose mornings "are still dark and they are always cold even in the summer." A young boy wakes up, sneaks past his sleeping parents' bedroom, gets his own breakfast and, with his trusty dog following him, delivers his papers. The paintings reflect the beauty of a world that is still asleep-except for the paperboy and his dog!
Suggested Use: Grade 2 - Unit 3
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Pa's Harvest: A True Story Told by Ephrem Carrier (Print-Non-Fiction). Andrews, Jan and Young, Cybele, illus. Groundwood Books (GDS), 2000. 39 p. ISBN 0-88899-405-2 ($12.95 hdc.).
(CAN) Set during the Great Depression, this is the true story of a family that reaches a point of near total loss and despair. With his son Ephrem's help, Pa plans to plant the best crop of potatoes ever. Perhaps for the very first time, the family will be able to celebrate Christmas with presents. A large and healthy crop is harvested, but when Ephrem and his Pa try to sell the potatoes, there are no buyers because all the farmers in the area had the same idea. They store the potatoes, but in the end they have to destroy them because they rot over the winter. The pacing and tone of this small novel bring the lost rural past to life. Black-and-white pen-and-ink illustrations with pale watercolour highlights help to make this an unforgettable story.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
The Play Real Game: Facilitator's Kit: Grades 3/4 (Game). Barry, Bill. (The Real Game Series). The Real Game Inc. (NLW), 2001. No order number is required. ($195.00).
(CAN) In this innovative and interactive simulation, students take on the role of adult workers, create a town with services and businesses, and make a presentation to a fictional company wishing to locate in their town. By learning about themselves, within the roles they assume, students gain a realistic understanding of a variety of life, education, work, personal and community issues.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 1; Grade 3 - Unit 4; Grade 4 - Unit 3; Grade 4 - Unit 4
Rice Is Life. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Gelman, Rita Golden and Choi, Yangsook, illus. Henry Holt & Co., Inc. (FEN), 2000. unp. ISBN 0-8050-5719-6 ($23.95 hdc.).
Beautifully illustrated with paintings across a two-page spread, this picture book brings to life the people of Bali and the importance of rice. The paintings and brief text follow the cycle of the rice season, from planting to harvesting. In addition to learning about the people of Bali and their customs, the book also has a strong conservation message as it depicts all the other animals that are dependent upon the rice fields.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1; Grade 1 - Unit 2; Grade 1 - Unit 3
Saskatchewan Trivia Challenge (Print-Non-Fiction). Karpan, Robin and Karpan, Arlene. Parkland Publishing (PKL), 2000. 192 p. ISBN 0-9683579-2-X ($14.95 pbk.).
(SK) This is an ideal book to introduce students to interesting facts about Saskatchewan and to encourage further reading. Questions connected to Saskatchewan oddities and records in sports, geography, history, culture and famous people can be found within this resource. Each page has one-to-two questions, usually in a multiple-choice format, with a descriptive answer and a picture. The book is fun to read and ideal for browsing.
Suggested Use: Grade 4 - Unit 1; Grade 4 - Unit 2; Grade 4 - Unit 3; Grade 4 - Unit 4
A Seaside Alphabet (Print-Non-Fiction). Grassby, Donna and Tooke, Susan, illus. Tundra Books Inc. (LRDC), 2000. unp. Order no. 18158 ($16.50 hdc.).
(CAN) This gloriously illustrated picture book is a celebration of all things coastal: humpback whales, teeming wildlife and most of all, the people who make their homes by the ocean. Both pictures and text are a veritable history/geography lesson in Atlantic Canada. The author provides a page of items to locate in each alphabetical illustration and challenges readers to find at least 10 items in each picture. The last two pages of the book provide anecdotes about the various scenes selected for each letter. This book could be paired with A Prairie Alphabet for a revealing look at the varying Canadian landscapes.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
The Spirit of Canada (Print-Anthology). Hehner, Barbara, ed. Malcolm Lester Books (GDS), 1999. 307 p. ISBN 1-894121-14-7 ($45.00 hdc.).
(CAN, I/M) This outstanding anthology includes over 100 selections of stories, poems and songs arranged both chronologically and thematically. The collection is divided into eight parts beginning with "When the World Was New" and ending with "From Far and Wide." Cultural and historical notes provide introductions to each section and preludes to every selection. The art work is distinguished and varied, from some of Canada's finest artists. Biographies of the authors and illustrators round out the collection, and an excellent index makes it easy for teachers or parents to find a poem, song or story for a particular event in our country's past or a specific cultural connection. This excellent resource will enliven and enrich the teaching of history and the appreciation of Canada's literary heritage.
Suggested Use: Grade 4 - Unit 2; Grade 5 -
Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level; English Language Arts: Grades 6 to 9
Storm at Batoche (Print-Fiction). Trottier, Maxine and Mantha, John, illus. Stoddart Publishing Co. Ltd. (LRDC), 2000. unp. Order no. 123 ($16.75 pbk.).
(CAN, I/M) This classic picture book depicts a period of Canadian history. Through an imaginary encounter between a young boy and a man named "Louis," children are introduced to the controversy of the Riel Resistance and the famous Battle of Batoche. Young James falls from the back of his family wagon during a storm while they are on their way to Batoche. His parents do not hear his shouts for help, and after struggling through the snow for hours he is picked up by a man on a horse who takes him to a small cabin and introduces himself as "Just Louis." After two days of sharing stories and baking gallette, or bannock, as James calls it, the storm clears and Louis takes James to the outskirts of Batoche. A two-page author's note at the back of the book gives a brief factual overview of Riel's life and his involvement with the Métis in their struggle to retain the land they felt was rightfully theirs. A recipe for gallette or bannock is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 2; Grade 4 -
Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Tales of the Amazon: How the Munduruku Aboriginals Live (Print-Non-Fiction). Munduruku, Daniel, Springer, Jane, translator and Laurabeatriz, illus. Groundwood Books (GDS), 2000. 56 p. ISBN 0-88899-392-7 ($18.95 hdc.).
(CAN) The first part of this resource provides the story of a young boy growing up as a member of the Munduruku group in the Amazon. The beautiful full-page illustrations add to the story of the life and culture of the people. The second section provides basic factual information about the Inuit peoples of Brazil, in particular the Munduruku. While Grade 3 students will enjoy the story, students at the Grade 6 and 8 levels will benefit from the description of the culture. An index is provided.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 3
Other Use: Social Studies: Grade 6; Social Studies: Grades 7-9
Tapestry: A Canadian Social Studies Program, Level 1 (Print-Non-Fiction). Asselstine, Les and Peturson, Rod. Harcourt Canada Ltd. (LRDC), 2000. 96 p. Teacher's Guide - Order no. 2736 ($41.90 coil-bound).
(CAN) Within this self-contained resource, teachers will find several suggestions for lessons related to family. There are also several sections that deal with the community. Topics such as people who help me, neighbourhood walk, at the store, safety rules and getting along are just a few of the areas covered. Each lesson starts with an overview that provides the basic information about the topic and activities. Further information is provided about preparing for the lesson, resources to use, facilitating the event and assessment.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1; Grade 1 - Unit 3; Grade 1 - Unit 4; Grade 2 - Unit 1; Grade 2 - Unit 3; Grade 2 - Unit 4; Teacher Reference
Tapestry: A Canadian Social Studies Program, Level 2 (Print-Non-Fiction). Asselstine, Les and Peturson, Rod. Harcourt Canada Ltd. (LRDC), 2000. 96 p. Teacher's Guide - Order no. 2801 ($41.96 coil-bound).
(CAN) Similar to Tapestry 1, this resource also features several teaching ideas related to families and communities. Topics such as people in my life, family stories, things we do in our community and connections to world communities are just a few of the areas covered. Each lesson starts with an overview that provides the basic information about the topic and activities. Further information is provided about preparing for the lesson, resources to use, facilitating the event and assessment.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1; Grade 1 - Unit 3; Grade 1 - Unit 4; Grade 2 - Unit 1; Grade 2 - Unit 3; Grade 2 - Unit 4; Grade 3 - Unit 1; Grade 3 - Unit 3; Grade 3 - Unit 4; Teacher Reference
There Have Always Been Foxes (Print-Fiction). Trottier, Maxine and Ricci, Regolo, illus. Stoddart Publishing Co. Ltd. (LRDC), 2001. 18 p. Order no. 6067 ($16.75 hdc.).
(CAN) The tale of Fortress Louisbourg began in 1713 on Cape Breton Island. What was a prized French fishing settlement became one of the mightiest fortresses in the New World. One particular myth that surrounds the history of the fortress is that of a fox that dances with a cat inside the fortress walls. Foxes have always inhabited the area, and this story is told from the perspective of a fox living nearby. An author's note gives information regarding the settlement of Louisbourg and of the story that inspired Maxine Trottier to write this picture book. The illustrations, with their misty, ethereal look complement the text. This would be a good introduction for students wanting to learn more about this National Historic Site-the largest reconstructed historic site in North America.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
A Ticket to Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Carolrhoda Books Inc. (FHW), 1999. 48 p. Order numbers follow. ($36.95 hdc.).
Recommended titles in this series include the following:
| Costa Rica | ISBN 1-57505-134-6 |
| Kenya | ISBN 1-57505-130-3 |
| Poland | ISBN 1-57505-131-1. |
With up-to-date photographs and an engaging text, this series will prove very useful when comparing communities around the world. The geography, people, history, customs, government and lifestyles of each country are described. The pictures depicting young people and the breezy tone of the text will add to its appeal with students. An index and a glossary are included.
Suggested Use: Grade 3 - Unit 3
The Tomb of the Boy King. 1st ed. (Print-Non-Fiction). Frank, John and Pohrt, Tom, illus. Farrar, Straus & Giroux, Inc. (GDS), 2001. unp. ISBN 0-374-37674-3 ($26.95 hdc.).
The strange unfolding of one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries of the 20th century-the tomb of King Tutankhamen is told in rhyming text in this poem. When read aloud, the text is full and dynamic, and it packs in an amazing amount of information, including legends of the "mummy's curse." The illustrations supplement the text with hieroglyphs and Egyptian motifs that underscore the exotic setting. An epilogue tells more about Tutankhamen and his legendary curse. This is a unique way to introduce a topic that holds fascination for students.
Suggested Use: Grade 2 - Unit 2
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
Tracing Your Saskatchewan Ancestors: A Guide to the Records and How to Use Them (Print-Non-Fiction). Hanowski, Laura M., ed. Saskatchewan Genealogical Society (SGS), 2000. 128 p. ISBN 1-895859-14-X ($26.00 coil-bound).
(SK) For class projects that include family histories, this is an excellent teacher resource to use. As the title indicates, the book provides detailed information on how to use the archives, churches, schools, newspapers, gazetteers and courts to locate the necessary data. Hints about locating information and warnings about the usefulness of some of the material are found throughout the book. What often appears to be a daunting task has been broken down into manageable units with this resource. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 4; Teacher Reference
Other Use: Canadian Studies
Uncommon Traveler: Mary Kingsley in Africa (Print-Non-Fiction). Brown, Don. Houghton Mifflin Company (ALL), 2000. unp. ISBN 0-618-00273-1 ($25.95 hdc.).
This inspiring book about perseverance introduces readers to 19th century British traveller Mary Kingsley. Confined in a Victorian manse with bricked up windows, Kingsley spent her young years caring for her bedridden mother and awaiting the intermittent visits of her father. Resourceful and independent, she escaped through the books she read in her father's library. After her parents' death, the 30-year-old woman embarked on extended travels to Africa, where she found her spiritual home and felt a kinship with the native people. When she returned to England, she shared her feelings in lectures and books. This biography will give students a sense of Kingsley's spirited nature.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 4; Grade 2 - Unit 4; Grade 3 - Unit 4
Other Use: English Language Arts: Elementary Level
The Voyageurs: Companion Book for Wilderness Journey (Print-Non-Fiction). Wilson, Ian and Wilson, Sally. (Exploring Canada Series). Gordon Soules Book Publishers Ltd. (SOU), 2000. 35 p. ISBN 1-894661-01-X ($7.95 pbk.).
(CAN) While the book Wilderness Journey is meant for older readers, younger students will enjoy this version of the authors' trip as voyageurs through Western Canada. Through the use of a brief and concise text, maps, photographs and drawings, students will be drawn into what life was like for the original voyageurs. The authors recreated and used the same voyageur equipment, food and clothing as they travelled during winter and summer on the historic fur trade routes. This is an excellent resource to provide students with a clearer picture about the fur trade and also to use as a stepping stone to further research.
Suggested Use: Grade 4 - Unit 2; Grade 5 -
Unit 2
Water: Reserves and Networks (Video). (Transit Across Canada Series). National Film Board of Canada (MGR), 2000. 20 min. Dup. order no. V678.
Canada has the greatest supply of fresh and salt water on earth. This program looks at Canada's waterways, reserves and networks, and the role that water has played in the past and today. It shows how this precious resource has been both a boon and a challenge. Early explorers trying to locate the Northwest Passage to Asia met incredible challenges on the treacherous ice floes of the Arctic. The coastal waters have held bountiful fish stocks. The inland systems of rivers and lakes have served as navigational arteries, sources of energy and leisure playgrounds.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 -
Unit 3
Other Use: Science: Middle Level; Science 10
We Came to North America Series (Print-Non-Fiction). Crabtree Publishing Company (CRA), 2000. 32 p. Order numbers follow. ($19.16 hdc.).
Recommended titles in this series include the following:
| The Africans | ISBN 0-7787-0184-0 |
| The Chinese | ISBN 0-7787-0188-3 |
| The French | ISBN 0-7787-0185-9 |
| The Hispanics | ISBN 0-7787-0186-7 |
| The Italians | ISBN 0-7787-0189-1 |
| The Jews | ISBN 0-7787-0187-5. |
Each of these short books presents a brief history of the people and why they would immigrate to North America. A description of their culture is provided with a discussion of how they adapted their traditional ways to the realities of Canada and the United States. While the series is an American publication, there is enough mention of Canada to recommend it. The easy-to-read text and the many illustrations make the resource suitable for several grade levels. An index and a glossary are included in each title.
Suggested Use: Grade 5 - Unit 2
Other Use: Social Studies: Grade 6; Social Studies: Grades 7-9
When We Go Camping (Print-Non-Fiction). Ruurs, Margriet and Kiss, Andrew, illus. Tundra Books Inc. (RAN), 2001. unp. ISBN 0-88776-476-2 ($17.99 hdc.).
(CAN) In this beautifully illustrated picture book, a family with two young children goes on a canoeing and camping trip. The single line of text for each painting draws the children into the great outdoors where birds and animals can be found in each picture. The family discovers the joys of nature and works together to enjoy their outdoor experience.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1; Grade 2 -
Unit 1
Other Use: Science: Elementary Level
Where Are We? (CD-ROM). Tom Snyder Productions (TSP), 2000. No order number is required. ($69.95 U.S.).
Learning to read maps is a skill that lends itself very well to the CD format. Opportunities can be created within the classroom for students to practise skills such as route planning, reading map scale, using compass directions and visual landmarks to pinpoint their location, and using a map to store and convey information. Real-world videos are used that allow students to match up their locations to a 2-D map. As they move through the video, their location on the map will change.
The teacher's guide provides install instructions, learning objectives, a walk through and several lessons on topics such as map symbols, map scale and being lost.
Suggested Use: Grade 2 - Unit 1; Grade 3 -
Unit 1
Wilderness Journey: Reliving the Adventures of Canada's Voyageurs (Print-Non-Fiction). Wilson, Ian and Wilson, Sally. Gordon Soules Book Publishers Ltd. (SOU), 2000. 245 p. ISBN 0-919574-74-2 ($16.95 pbk.).
(CAN) The authors of this book had a desire to recreate the conditions of the original voyageurs as they retraced the western fur trade routes from Lake Superior to northern Saskatchewan. Thus they built and used a birchbark canoe, wore voyageur-style clothing and ate pemmican. Their story is one of gripping adventure and also of historical interest. A much better understanding for the lives of the early fur traders is realized with this resource. Maps, drawings and photographs are used to illustrate their journey. An index is included.
Suggested Use: Grade 5; Teacher Reference
Other Use: Social Studies: Grades 7-9
Women's History Month: A Celebration of Women's Lives (Print-Non-Fiction). Saskatchewan Women's Secretariat (SPSY), 2001. 23 p. No order number is required. ($FREE booklet).
(SK) During September 2001, two copies of this resource were distributed to each school in the province. This short booklet contains a wealth of information highlighting the achievements of Saskatchewan women and their contributions to history. All too often these stories have been forgotten, and this resource attempts to remedy that situation. The resource offers an opportunity to write women back into Canadian history and to develop a better understanding of the diverse roles women play in contemporary society. While the content may be at a Secondary Level, the student activities can be used at the Elementary and Middle Levels.
Additional copies of this booklet can be obtained from the Saskatchewan Women's Secretariat free of charge.
Suggested Use: Grade 4 - Unit 1; Grade 4 - Unit 4; Grade 5 - Unit 1; Grade 5 - Unit 4
Other Use: Canadian Studies; Social Studies: Grades 7-9; Social Studies 10/History 10; Social Studies 20/History 20
Yellow Umbrella Books for Early Readers: Level A (Print-Non-Fiction). Trumbauer, Lisa. Capstone Press, Inc. (KRS), 2000. Order numbers follow. ($18.70 set).
Recommended titles in this set include the following:
| At School | ISBN 0-7368-7020-2 |
| Families | ISBN 0-7368-7013-X |
| On the Go | ISBN 0-7368-7014-8 |
| Our Favorite Things to Do | ISBN 0-7368-7018-0 |
| Teamwork | ISBN 0-7368-7012-1 |
| Who Is a Friend? | ISBN 0-7368-7017-2. |
Each of these short books provides excellent colour photographs of children and adults in everyday activities. The short and descriptive text is ideal for students in Grades 1 and 2. Meaningful discussions can be generated from each of the books.
When using the At School title, the map of the United States will have to be supplemented with Canadian information.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1; Grade 1 - Unit 2; Grade 1 - Unit 3; Grade 1 - Unit 4; Grade 2 - Unit 1; Grade 2 - Unit 2; Grade 2 - Unit 3; Grade 2 - Unit 4
Yellow Umbrella Books for Early Readers: Level B (Print-Non-Fiction). Trumbauer, Lisa, Ecker, Debbie and Weidenman, Lauren. Capstone Press, Inc. (KRS), 2000. Order numbers follow. ($18.70 set).
Recommended titles in this set include the following:
| About 100 Years Ago | ISBN 0-7368-7015-6 |
| Communities | ISBN 0-7368-7023-7 |
| People and Places | ISBN 0-7368-7022-9 |
| People Work | ISBN 0-7368-7019-9 |
| What Is a Map? | ISBN 0-7368-7021-0. |
Each of these short books is written at a slightly higher reading level than Level A of the same series. Each title uses excellent colour photographs of children and adults in everyday activities. The short and descriptive text is ideal for students in Grades 1 and 2. Meaningful discussions can be generated from each of the books.
When using the What Is a Map? title, the map of the United States will have to be supplemented with Canadian information.
Suggested Use: Grade 1 - Unit 1; Grade 1 - Unit 2; Grade 1 - Unit 3; Grade 1 - Unit 4; Grade 2 - Unit 1; Grade 2 - Unit 2; Grade 2 - Unit 3; Grade 2 - Unit 4
