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Stone-Tolan House - Historical Coloring Book

School: Genesee Community Charter School

Grade(s): 2

Format(s): Children's book: Coloring

Subject(s): Social Studies, Visual Arts

Project Overview

This historical coloring book was created by 2nd grade students from the Genesee Community Charter School, in Rochester, New York, as part of a Learning Expedition on local history. Students combined two product formats by using a coloring book as a form of a guide book to a historic house in Rochester. The book contains drawings that illustrate the history of the house; each drawing is accompanied by a written description.

Students worked extensively with local experts from the historic house and from the library, and with a curator from the Landmark Society. Students did fieldwork at the house, spending time making observations, asking questions and gathering information.

This historical coloring book had an authentic audience; it was a means for introducing the historic house to other young visitors.

The product was produced at the school, using 11 by 17 inch paper that was folded and center-staple bound. 

How This Project Can Be Useful

  • A good example of young students engaged in fieldwork with local experts
  • Shows an example of creating a product that will be engaging for a real audience
  • Shows a creative way to integrate art and writing
  • Highlights some strong and clear writing by 2nd graders. See entry about the summer kitchen
  • Drawings show how on-site observation can be transferred into detailed drawings by young children - see drawing of the tavern room

Common Core State Standards

Standard Long Term Learning Target
W.2.2
  • I can construct a closure on the topic of an informative/explanatory text.
W.2.8
  • I can answer questions about things I’ve done or learned about.
L.2.1
  • I can use grammar conventions to send a clear message to a reader or listener.
L.2.2
  • I can use conventions to send a clear message to my reader.
L.2.3
  • I can compare formal and informal language.
L.3.6
  • I can accurately use 3rd grade academic vocabulary to express my ideas.
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