Margie Gray'sPrairie Primer Unit Study is one of the most interesting unit studies around, and
also a fascinating way to develop a love for history. It uses the
Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder and the Bible for
learning Biblical character qualities in the setting of American
pioneer history. Mrs. Gray
has done a wonderful job of making Pioneer history come alive.
Designed for
3rd to 6th graders, it can be easily adapted for a wider age range.
It can be a full
program by adding Math and Language Arts (grammar). Lots of
opportunities for
art, science, reading, encyclopedia practice, writing-something for
every
child and much, much more.
It is great for doing a unit without having to start from
scratch,using in multilevel families and building character.
WHAT SUBJECT AREAS DOES IT COVER?
It covers U.S. History in the 1800's, U.S. geography, science,
language, practical living, health, safety, nutrition, music and arts.
Except for grammar,spelling and math the Primer is a well rounded
scholastic program. Each "Little House" book is a unit that should take
about one month to complete.
WHAT MATERIALS ARE NEEDED FOR THE PRIMER UNITS?
The only items needed to use the Primer (about $45) are the nine "Little House"
books by Laura Ingalls Wilder (about $30) and the Bible. There are plenty of
supplemental materials that can be purchased to go along with the
units but are not necessary. As for other resources, I would get the
Little House cookbook (about $5), Historical Timetable (about $2),
Song Book and Tape Set (about $12), and The World of Little House (see below for description). The 1828 Dictionary is on-line
and so is much of the information needed. A good encyclopedia would
be a great benefit, as well. The Laura Ingalls Wilder Country would be a nice supplement.
HOW EASY IS IT TO USE?
The Primer is designed to be user friendly. The Weekly Planning guide
highlights the resources and materials to be gathered.
Most resources can be found at most libraries.
The World of Little House by Carolyn Strom Collins and Christina Wyss Eriksson is a perfect companion to use with the Prairie Primer. It has background information on Laura, a family tree, pictures,and a timeline. There is chapter on each of the 9 books including background information, recipes (ex. molasses snow candy, clove apples), crafts (ex. 9-patch quilt, autograph book), and travel maps. It even has directions how to polka and waltz. This little book is packed with useful information. At one time, Scholastic Books was selling a paperback version that was less expensive.
The "Little House" Series is autobiographical fiction. This means that Laura Ingalls Wilder writes about herself and her life, but it is considered fiction in that the events recorded are reconstructed for the sake of storytelling.
