Website Review: African Rock Art

AFRICAN ROCK ART from the British Museum explores the 30,000 year history of rock art.

The easy-to-use website is filled with attractive photographs and concise chunks of information. The website begins with an exploration of techniques of production, chronologies, and origins of rock art in Africa.

The “Explore Countries” section provides an introduction to the regions of Africa and the rock art in each area.

The “Explore Themes” section examines representations in rock art including warriors, geometric motifs, cattle brands, animals, hairdressings, chariots, fishing, and writing. Standing stones are also explored.

The “Examine Images” section provides access to a digital collection of rock art images from the British Museum. The multimedia section links to videos that provide a context for many of the rock art sites.

Librarians will find that this website provides a useful introduction to rock art. Work with teachers to incorporate this website into history and art classes. Also, connect this resource with others that explore rock art sites around the world. Consider an inquiry-based learning assignment that connects rock art with a discussion of primary sources and the use of evidence to draw inferences.

To visit the website, go to http://africanrockart.britishmuseum.org/

Book Review: When Green Becomes Tomatoes

WHEN GREEN BECOMES TOMATOES: POEMS FOR ALL SEASONS by Julie Fogliano uses forty-eight short poems to tell the story of a year.

The combination of Fogliano’s delicate, rhythmic voice with Morstad’s cheerful illustrations create a pleasing atmosphere for children to explore poetry. Most children will relate to the author’s exploration of everyday activities during each season.

Libraries will find this attractive picture book to be an enticing addition to the growing number of poetry books focusing on the seasons. Use it as a way to jumpstart student writing projects that explore the connection between nature and the human experience. The book features specific dates during the year. Ask students to write their own poems to fill in the gaps.

Published by Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan on March 1, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Website Review: The Great War Archaeology

THE GREAT WAR ARCHAEOLOGY website explores the work archaeologists are doing to learn more about World War I in France (1914-1918).

This amazing website is divided into five sections titled Called Up to the Front, Archaeological Remains, Day-to-Day Life, Day-to-Day Death, and Underground War and Technical Innovations. Each section provides short text segments, historical photos, maps, video, and other interesting materials.

In addition to the core materials, the chronology section provides an interactive timeline of events along with useful primary source documents and information. The links area provides websites where users can find out more about World War I. Finally, the glossary defines key terms and locations.

Librarians will find the archaeology focus a unique way to explore World War I topics and primary sources. This approach may also attract students who are drawn to the scientific and technical aspects of studying history. Foreign language teachers should note that the website is available in French and German in addition English.

To explore the website, go to http://archeologie1418.culture.fr/en/.