EDC-305: Teaching Social Studies (Behan): Using Picture Books to Teach Hard History

Using a picture book to introduce a concept for the first time is oftentimes a great teaching strategy. In instances where we are teaching more difficult topics though, an introduction from the teacher first is ideal. Giving students language around slavery an its history is critical to developing their understanding of the concept prior to introducing them to historical figures or narratives about the experience of enslavement.

• Determine what the students in your context already know and what they need to know before reading the picture book of your choosing.
• Are the books you choose only showing exceptional people of historical significance?

Book Selection

• Who are the author and illustrator? Be aware of whose voices you are centering when selecting books.

Vetting the Book

• Read the entire book focusing on the language. What words will your students need to be defined? What concepts do they need to understand before reading?
• Read the entire book again focusing on the illustrations. Are they appropriate for the age range? Is there anything distinct about the art style? What pictures will you discuss as a class?
• Are there any sections or pages that you can omit? You don't have to use the entire book for a read-aloud! Paper-clip pages together when you decide that some pages may not be suitable for your lesson, your audience, etc. 

Preparing for the Read-Aloud

• Use sticky notes, tabs, etc., to mark pages in the book where you will stop and discuss with the students.
• Write your questions ahead of time and have them prepared on a sticky note or piece of paper.
• Paper-clip pages together that you will not read during class.