Synergy: World War I

World War I (1914-1918) was one of the most deadly global conflicts in human history. In addition to the estimated 9 million people killed in combat, another 5 million civilians died as a result of the conflict. 

Read the recently published nonfiction book for young adults, then learn more at the websites:

WORLD WAR I: THE GREAT WAR TO END ALL WARS by Julie Knutson is part of the Inquire & Investigate series. This interdisciplinary text explores the events that led to the war along with key battles. Using photographs, graphic novel-style illustrations, and primary source documents, readers learn about both the home-front and global aspects of the war. Useful fact boxes, sidebars, and questions are likely to engage reluctant learners. ARC courtesy of Nomad Press.

1914-1918 ONLINE is an international encyclopedia focusing on the First World War. Readers can explore the website through a timeline, themes, regions, or article topics.

To visit the website, go to https://encyclopedia.1914-1918-online.net/.

Website Review: Landmarks

LANDMARKS is an interactive exhibition focusing on Canada’s National Parks and Historic Sites.

As part of their 150th anniversary celebration, this website celebrates Canada’s rich land and its history through stories and contemporary artwork. The interactive experience allows users to select a destination based on a night sky visualization. Users are then immersed into a particular location in Canada. As participants wander through the exhibition, they view images and listen to sounds, music, and stories created by Canadians. Many of the areas incorporate historical documents and other resources.

Librarians will find this website to be an interesting way to explore Canada’s natural and historical areas. Ask youth to select an American location and create their own interactive exhibition, story, sound, or piece of music. Build an interdisciplinary project that combines art, music, writing, and social studies.

To visit the website, go to https://landmarks2017.ca/experience/.

App Review: PBS Students

PBS STUDENTS by PBS LearningMedia is an app designed to help learners access educational content and create storyboards to share their ideas.

The app was designed to complement the PBS LearningMedia Student portal website. Providing access to thousands of resources across subject areas, students can watch videos, play interactives, download images, and complete activities. Favorite programs including those by Ken Burns, Jim Henson Company, NOVA, National Archives, NASA, and many more are available through the app.

Learners explore content by subject area or search for a topic. Local resources can be accessed by state and community. Students can create an account so they can store favorites and build interactive web pages called Storyboards to share what they’ve learned.

Librarians will find this app to be an effective way to provide access to PBS content in a controlled environment. The easy-to-use building tools are an interesting way for students to create and share an interactive poster containing media, images, a background, and text. A URL is generated that students can share with their teacher.

To download the app, go to https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pbs-students/id972063192.