Building a Personal Connection to History

The information presented in the Historical Method document makes a valid point when we are reminded to help students make a personal connection to historical people and events. One way I try to do this is by using historical fiction in my reading groups. I find that students can better relate to what is learned in history if they can connect an emotion to the voices of history. By using high quality historical fiction, students can 'feel' the time period, experience the events for themselves, and envision the multiple perspectives that existed at the time. By then connecting the feelings and knowledge, students will continue to build personal connections to what they are learning in the classroom. History will become a valued treasure rather than a long list of trivial facts.