ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS: AMERICA’S AZTEC, INCAN AND MAYANHERITAGE TILL 1450
Trace the development of early Aztec, Incan and Mayan civilizations
Describe (narration by younger children or written by older children) the basic life-styles of people of the the Aztec, Incan and Mayan societies (the Early North American mound builders and cliff dwellers) including dress, technology, vocations, religious practices, social system and education, architecture, and entertainment.
Understand their religious practices and how their architecture related to those practices.
Locate on a map of the world the key locations where the civilizations flourished.
Readings for ages 4-8:
Growing Up in Aztec Times by Marion Wood and Richard Hook introduces what life was like for young people. The book covers in two to four paragraphs all the important topics: clothing, housing, education, family life, education, customs and beliefs, food, etc., from a young person’s perspective. Color illustrations. Available from www.trisms.org$4.95
*Incans, Aztecs and Mayans by John Holzman Available from www.sonlight.com
Aztec Life (Early Civilizations Series) by John D. Clare brings to life in text and illustrations the vast and highly sophisticated pre-Columbian civilization that radiated from what is now Mexico City. The Aztecs called it Tenochtitlan, until its conquest by Spanish explorers under Cortez in the 1500s, an event that marked the fall of the Aztec civilization.$5.95
Inca Life (Early Civilizations Series) by David Drew Account of the sophisticated Inca social system, architecture, cities with terraced gardens on mountain tops, agriculture, and trade routes. Vanquished by the Spaniard Pizarro in 1532, the remains of some of its high mountain cities, for instance, Macchu Picchu, were not discovered until the early twentieth century$5.95
The Sad Night: The Story of an Aztec Victory and a Spanish Loss by Sally Schofer Mathews A brief but dramatic presentation of the history of the Aztecs and their city Tenochtitlan, with special focus on the dramatic story of Montezuma and Cortez. The book climaxes with the bloody battle known as the Sad Night, when the Aztecs fought off the Spaniards for control of their city, and then wraps up with the eventual fall of Aztecs and the legacy of their city as the site of Mexico City today. The book uses stylized artwork of Aztec designs, repeated geometric motifs and the depiction of people and animals in silhouette. It also includes a cutaway view of modern Mexico City above and below $13.60
Rain Player by David Wisniewski Story of a young Mayan ballplayer who challenges the rain god to a game to save his people from a terrible drought. For readers 5-9
Ages 9-12:
Macchu Picchu: The Story of the Amazing Inkas and Their City in the Clouds (Wonders of the World Book) by Elizabeth Mann and Amy Crehore (Illustrator) An engagingly well written non-fiction account of Machu Picchu, the religious site sacred to the Incas (or Inkas as it is spelled here), as the setting for the Incas’ story. The city, up in the sky and between two mountains, was made out of stone carved with primitive tools. After beginning with the discovery of the city by Hiram Bingham in 1911, Mann goes back in time to introduce the Incas. Mann explains how the various parts of the empire were conquered and shaped into a whole, how roads were built and communication was facilitated, the concept and concrete place that was Machu Picchu, and how the end came for the Incas. Unusual and arresting oil painting- style illustrations by Amy Crehore of Machu Picchu high in the mountains,. in the mist, a young, mummified child surrounded by possessions. $13.96
Inca Town by Fiona MacDonald, Bergin focuses on the design and function of the Inca Town. Gorgeous illustrations with impressive cutaways of Inca homes and temples depicting what might have gone on inside the buildings. $8.95
Step into the Aztec & Mayan Worlds (Step into Series)by Fiona MacDonald A fairly comprehensive overview of the life of the Aztecs and Mayas – the cities they built, their mysterious pyramids, astronomical knowledge and their practice of human sacrifice. Also includes 15 interesting step-by-step projects to help children recreate the past. $10.36
The Secret of the Andes by Clark (SL3) Eloquent and moving telling of the story of a modern Inca boy, his choices in a different land and his feelings in relating to a conquered people. Against the background of the history of the Spanish ‘conquest’ and the people who saved the llamas from extinction during the period, the book also explores life themes such as the importance of family, traditions, caring for others, respecting elders. $4.99
Pyramid of the Sun, Pyramid of the Moon by Leonard Everett Fisher The book features two ancient Central American pyramids of the Toltec and Aztec peoples, their religious rituals (bloody and involves human sacrifice). A timeline is included.
Hands-on and Interactive Media Resources:
Ancient Aztecs Treasure Chest Activity kit with info booklet, materials to make a feather headdress, replica pottery flute, a model of the Temple, map, playing pieces and board for ancient Mexican game “patolli” $19.95
Life in Ancient Mexico Coloring Book (Dover Publications) $”.95
The Incas A one-hour PBS special gives an overview of the Incan civilization with stunning views of the historical sites of the South American empire. From www.pbs.org$19.95
Lost Cities of the Mayas National Geographic Home Video production of reenacted scenes of ancient Mayan life as well as footage of archaeological sites From www.nationalgeographic.com $19.95
Lost Civilizations Explorer’s Kit contains an info booklet, block of clay for excavating a model of the Temple of the Giant Jaguar at Tikal, ancient Mayan city in Guatemala. $18.95
ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS: AFRICA600-1450
Trace the development of major ancient African civilization
Describe (narration by younger children or written by older children) the basic life-styles of people of the Ancient Africa, including dress, technology, vocations, religious practices, education, housing, and entertainment.
Identify key historical personalities
Explain the importance of a significant date or event on your timeline to the history of the ancient civilization.
Locate on a map of the world the places where the key kingdoms flourished
Readings for Logic-Rhetoric Stage:
A Glorious Age in Africa by Chu & Skinner Fascinating, astonishing, well-researched, well-written introduction to three great West African civilizations–An SL5 review $9.95
African Beginnings by Jim Haskins and Kathleen Benson A chronological history of 11 Ancient African civilizations from 3800 BC to AD 1665. Beautifully illustrated in color, includes maps, timeline and readings.
Hands-on Resources:
Ancient Civilizations for Children: Ancient Africa (video)
African Mask kit includes a precut 14-inch cardboard mask ot be colored and decorated. Successful and impressive results are likely with this one for kids aged 6+ From Curiosity kits email Ckitsinc@aol.com $12.00
A Coloring Book of Ancient Africa (Bellerophon coloring books) Blackline reproductions of artworks from Benin Also Ancient Africa: Volume 2: The Art of Ife featuring artworks from 11th to 15th century kingdom of Ife $2.95 each
Identify the reason that an individual is important, given the name of a significant historical character in ancient Greco-Roman times. Key individuals include: Alexander the Great, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Euclid, Herodotus, Hippocrates, Homer, Pericles, Ptolemy I, Cleopatra
Introduction to Greek History: Explain the importance of a significant date or event to the history of ancient Greece. Key items include(/Medes and Persians/ Greeks and Persians / Greek Gods & Legends/ 431-404 BC The Golden Age of Greece: Peloponnesian Wars , 404 BC Sparta defeats Athens, 336 BC Alexander crowned Emperor: Preparation for Proclamation A Nation of Warriors, 323 BC Alexander dies, / Greek Achievements / The Trojan War I /The Trojan War II
Describe how the geographical characteristics of the Balkan Peninsula influenced the development of ancient Greece/ List the four primary physical characteristics of city-states. / Compare and contrast Spartan and Athenian education, society, culture and daily life, economics, traditions, and government. / Democracy, totalitarianism. Greek and Persian cultures in conflict. / Summarize the evolution of Athenian democracy during the rule of Draco, Solon, Pisistratus, and Cleisthenes. / Summarize the events, causes, and effects of the Persian War. / The Golden Age of Greece: Describe the events, causes, and effects of the Peloponesian War / Evaluate the role of culture diffusion in the development of civilizations. / Compare the virtues of Greek art with the characteristics of the society / Pericles. Early Greek philosophies / Describe the development of Greek thought by profiling Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Associate this philosophy with the philosophies that developed during the Hellenistic era. / Discuss the principle differences between the Greek (Helena) and Hellenistic civilizations. / Explain the principle contributions to Western civilization of the Greek and Hellenistic civilizations / Greek Achievements: Eratosthenes, Plato Archimedes, other Greek greats./ Aristotle/ Alexander the Great.: Preparation for Proclamation
Locate on a map of the world the key places where historical places studied occurred.
Describe (narration by younger children or written by older children) the basic life-styles of people during the major periods of Greco history, including dress, technology, vocations, religious practices, education, housing, and entertainment.
Describe the historical development of Greek societies and its contribution to modern society.[Use a timeline or Veritas Press Sequence Flash Cards in chronological order and describe each historic event represented.]
Readings on Legends of Ancient Greece for early grammar (4-8 yrs):
Greek & Roman Eras Journey Through History series Easy text and charming watercolor illustrations present the clothing, architecture, homes and other lifestyle features of the eras to young children. From www.rainbowresource.com $5.95
*D’Aulaire’s Book of Greek Myths by Ingre & Edgar d’Aulaire “Our favorite to teach Greek mythology. The illustrations are incredible and the text is fun to read. This book will spur on things like a “Zeus’ Family Reunion” or an incredible “Greek Feast”. ” – A VP review. Suitable for ages 9-12 and as a readaloud for younger children (Available from all catalogs) $18.95
*The Trojan Horse… or How the Greeks Won the War Random House by Emily LittleThis is the story of Odysseus and his clever plan which conquered Troy after a ten year siege. This is a STEP 4 book, intended as a reader for grades 2-4. Well written and well illustrated. (A GP review) (Also an SL2) $3.99
*The Twelve Labors of Hercules (Step into Reading) by Marc Serasini With the rollicking humor of a tall tale, this retelling is an exciting first step into Greek mythology. – An Amazon.com editorial review $3.99
*The Amazing Adventures of Hercules (Usborne) The usual comic strip style and more violent than Step into Reading version
*Jason and the Golden Fleece (Troll Associates) A picture book for ages 4-8
Jason and the Argonauts by Mary Pope Osborne
Usborne Jason and the Argonauts Usborne’s is much more violent than Osborne’s
*Pegasus by Jane Yolen Stunning oil painting illustrations of azure skies of the Mediterranean grace the covers and hint of what is found between the pages of the book. A gloruiys telling of the tale of the son of Poseidon and a mortal woman, Bellerophon who tames the miraculous winged horse, Pegasus, slays Chimaera the three-headed monster, and marries a beautiful princess. $13.59
*Aesop’s Fables by Jerry Pinkney Illustrations are glorious. Some of the stories are familiar, some are less known selections. A www.chinaberry.com recommendation Age 4-8 $19.95
The Aesop for Children by Arnold Lobel A staple classic with accessible text for the very young used by many homeschoolers, but my son preferred the more visually beautiful Pinkney version. $5.95
Usborne The Adventures of Ulysses ages 4-8
*The Voyage of Odysseus (Troll Associates) — picture book
Readings for the Logic (9-12 yrs) stage:
*The Children’s Homer By Padraic Colum. A classic telling of the story of the Trojan War combining the immortal stories from Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey into one glorious saga of heroism and magical adventure. Voyage to ancient Greece with Achilles who, guided by the gods, seeks vengeance on the Trojans. Follow Odysseus on his perilous journey – through the land of the Cyclopes, past Circe the enchantress, the terrible Charybdis, and the six-headed serpent Scylla. “Colum retells in tight narrative form the tale of the siege of Troy as found in the Iliad, and the tale of the wanderings of Odysseus as found in the Odyssey. This is the best edition of Homer’s epics written for children today in print. Stirring telling of the Greek epics is still unequaled as an introduction to the classic myths for young readers … Illustrated with superb drawings, full of the driving force of the poetic prose.I have rejected Rosemary Sutcliff’s Black Ships Before Troy and The Wanderings of Odysseus $24.95 commonly found in homeschool catalogs for several reasons: her two books, for six times the price, tell with less detail, less literary power, and with Homer’s strong moral message watered down what Colum takes one book to tell with detail, strength, and literary power; and some of the illustrations in The Wanderings of Odysseus are completely inappropriate for children, with several paintings of women with exposed torsos.” A CCH review $9.95
Also The Golden Fleece and the Heroes Who Lived Before Achilles by Padraic Colum. $4.50
Greek Fairy Tales (also known as The Heroes) by Charles Kingsley. Also Jason and the Argonauts, Perseus and the Head of Medusa, and Theseus and the Minotaur The stories of are told with power and grace by a master storyteller, Charles Kingsley. Kingsley’s wonderful retelling is back in print
Theseus and the Minotaur by Leonard Everett Fisher A beautiful retelling of the Greek myth of the hero, Theseus, and his battle with the bull-headed monster called the Minotaur. Third grader level onwards $5.95
Jason and the Argonauts by Mary Pope Osborne ages 9-12
The Trojan Horse by Emily Little Perfect for third graders to read on their own as an introduction to the Trojan War. Along with reading it, consider building a life size model out of about four refrigerator boxes and your children will never forget this ancient story. $3.99
*Black Ships Before Troy: The Story of the Iliad by Rosemary Sutcliff, illustrated by Alan Lee An award winning story-teller and the artist who illustrated the 1991 edition of The Lord of the Rings combine to retell the story of Homer’s Iliad – a tale worth telling. This is a beautiful book, the color illustrations are richly detailed and evocative. The story is well-told in a high tone which captures the spirit of classical drama. Reading level is 6th/7th grade and up. 120 pages, hardback( A GP review) $24.95
Tales of the Greek Heroes by Roger Lancelyn Green who is associated with both Lewis and Tolkien of the Oxford “Inklings”. His translation/ retelling of the stories from the Iliad and the Odyssey are excellent read-aloud material. reading level is 6/7th grade (A GP review) $4.99
The Macmillan Book of Greek Gods and Heroes by Alice Low Rewritten and well illustrated these are the most entertaining stories of the Greeks. Their myths and legends are told in a fascinating way. A good introduction to Greek mythology for children. $18.00
The Greek Gods (Scholastic) by Bernard Evslin, Dorothy Evslin and Ned Hoopes An excellent introduction to mythology, including a glossary and booklist Ages 12+ $3.50
Heroes and Monsters of Greek Myth (Scholastic) by Bernard Evslin, Dorothy Evslin and Ned Hoopes A timeless collection of mythical adventures, including the exciting tales of Perseus, Theseus, Atalanta and Pygmalion An easy and accessible version of Greek myths presented in story form (than Hamilton’s version) Ages 12+ $12.95
Favorite Greek Myths (Scholastic) by Mary Pope Osborne A handsome, distinctive volume of 12 ancient Greek stories made exciting and accessible for young readers. A Notable Chidlren’s Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies $4.95
Wanderings of Odysseus by Rosemary Sutcliffe recounts what happened after the Greek conquest of Troy $24.95
The Deadly Power of Medusa by Will Osborne (OOP)
The Exploits of Xenophon by Geoffrey Household, Leonard Everett Fisher A reissue of a book first published in 1955 by Random. Reviewed, April 1956. The account of Xenophon’s 401 B.C. crusade against the Persians contains some of Leonard Everett Fisher’s earliest children’s book illustrations. Index. — Copyright © 1990 The Horn Book, Inc. All rights reserved. (OOP)
For the rhetoric stage (jr-high school age):
Myths of Greece and Rome by H. A. Guerber Straightforward and captivating narrative style but containing much more depth and detail than d’Aulaire’s Greek Myths. Appropriate for older children through teens to read on their own. Illustrated with photographs of famous sculptures and paintings depicting scenes from classical mythology, and embellished with poetry and literature, ancient and modern.
Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes by Edith Hamilton, Steel Savage Also Mythology by Edith Hamilton (OOP) A survey by a renowned classical author who covers all the major and most minor Greek, Norse and Roman gods, goddesses, stories in this book. $12.96
Readings on life in Ancient Greece for early grammar stage (4-8 yrs):
Greek & Roman Eras Journey Through History series An easy sweep through history in 6 volumes, acquainting young children with the people, times and cultures of the past to the present. Full-color illustrations liven the books, high lighting clothing, architecture, homes, ad other features of the era. A www.rainbowresource.com review $5.75
Growing Up in Ancient Greece by Chris Chelepi Daily life in ancient Greece from a child’s point of view. In 32 nicely illustrated pages, it discusses life in the city, life in the country, different types of work, pets and toys, meals, families, and many other aspects. $4.95
The Greeks by Roy Burrell An introduction to the development of the life, customs and culture of ancient Greece. The illustrations are rich, accurate and epic in style. A VP recommendation $14.95
Readings on life in Ancient Greece for the Logic stage (9-12 yrs):
Cultural Atlas for Young People: Ancient Greece by Anton Powell Beginning with a timeline that stretches from 1500 B.C. and the Mycenaean and Minoan civilizations through the empire of Alexander the Great ending in 240 B.C., this book, like the others in the Cultural Atlas for Young People series, is lavishly illustrated with National Geographic- quality photos and full-page maps. Part One covers a history of Greece, including the Minoans and Mycenaeans, Homer’s Greece, the siege of Troy, aristocrats and poets, colonization, Magna Graecia and the Tyrants, Sparta, Athens and democracy, war against the Persian empire, Greek warships and soldiers, the Peloponnesian Wars, the siege of Plataia, Greek coins, trade, seafaring, and slaves, the Spartan empire and the ten thousand, King Philip and the rise of Macedon, the royal tombs at Macedon, Alexander’s campaigns, and the successor kingdoms. Part Two covers the culture and society of the different regions of Greece, and Knossos and Mycenae. An excellent resource. A CCH review
The Story of the Greeks By H. A. Guerber Far and above all other narrative histories of Greece for children, The Story of the Greeks is an excellent introduction to Ancient Greece. Rich in detail, it covers the complete scope of Grecian history from the early inhabitants through its incorporation as a province of Rome in 115 lessons. We learn of her heroes, and Oedipus, Paris, Achilles, Hector, Homer, Sparta, Lycurgus, Draco, Solon, the Greco- Persian wars, Leonidas, Athens, Pericles, the Peloponneisan War, Socrates, Philip of Macedon, Alexander the Great, and Greece’s great philosophers, scientists, and leaders. A CCH review
*The Greeks Usborne Publishing A thorough depiction of all facets of Greek culture and history from the Minoans to Alexander the Great. Lots of details in the illustrations and text on such subjects as farming, markets, travel, childhood and education, parties, sports, medicine, etc. Usborne at its best. ( A GP review) $12.95
Ancient Greece the Nature Company Discoveries Series Oversize, 64pp, beautiful illustrations, lots of photographs. Not a history, but an introduction to Greek culture with chapters on The Greek World, Life in Ancient Greece, Arts and Science, and Foreign Affairs. (A GP review) $16.00
The Buried City of Pompeii by Shelley Tanaka A vivid pictorial directory of the unanticipated explosion of Vesuvius. Written in diary form by Eros, a steward of Quintus Poppaeus and a wealthy citizen, one gains a fuller appreciation of the events of August 24, 79 AD. $16.96
Pompeii by Peter Connolly Accurate reconstruction of the people and life in Pompeii with beautifully rendered illustrations (VP) $12.95
Living History: Ancient Greece (series) A gorgeous presentation of life in Ancient Greece using photographs of model replicas and costumed actors. Full of facts and details that will satisfy both the child and adult(VP)$16.95
What Do We Know About the Greeks? By Anne Pearson (VP) Answers questions about life in Greece in fascinating way. $18.95
The Usborne Illustrated World History: The Greeks by Peach, Millard and Chisholm $12.95
*Hour of the Olympics by Mary Pope Osborne ages 4-8 Jack and Annie in this formulaic time travel series go back in time to Ancient Greece to witness the Olympics $11.99
The Ides of April by Mary Ray Murder by one slave in a Roman household meant death for the other slaves. When Senator Caius Pomponius is found stabbed, his seventeen-year-old secretary manages to escape arrest. In a desperate attempt to save his mother and fellow slaves, he is unexpectedly helped by Varro, a secret Christian. The novel captures vividly the evils of slavery, the daily realities of Roman life just after the time of Christ, and also some of the excitement and tension of Christianity in its early days of secret but astounding growth. paperback, 168 pages. reading level is 6th grade & up.(GP) $11.95
Beyond the Desert Gate by Mary Kay Sequel to Ides of April. Set in Palestine in the first century A.D. – as disturbed and divided as it is today. A young boy, orphaned, is befriended by a scribe who has lost his memory. Both are searching for their identity. A serious story of an important time in history.(A GP review) $11.95
Ancient Greeks in the Land of the Gods by Sophie Descamps-Lequime & Denis Vernerey SL6 A glimpse into the lives of the ancient Greeks explores Greece’s unique political organization as well as the worlds of the gods, the theater, and the Olympic games -an Ingram review For ages 9-12 $23.40
Readings for the Rhetoric stage:
*The Ancient City: Life in Classical Athens and Romeby Peter Connolly and Hazel Dodge Marvelous full-color drawings of the public and private structures of Athens and Rome are the perfect illustrative counterpart to his detailed description of city life in the classical era. The Ancient City covers the Greece of the golden years of Athens (approximately the 4th to 3rd centuries B.C.), and the Roman Empire from the reign of Augustus to the reign of Septimius Severus (27 B.C. to A.D. 211). In addition to such monuments as the Parthenon and the Colosseum, adolescent readers–and adults just beginning to study the ancient world–can learn about the two era’s different forms of government, contemporary fashions, home life, and entertainment. $35.00
*The Ancient Greece Of Odysseus by Peter Connolly whose previous books have illustrated the Roman World and Ancient Israel. Now he turns his attention to illustrating and reconstructing the appearance of the people and places of Homer’s world. illustrations, maps, photographs and archaeological information are all woven together with a retelling of the main events of Homer’s epics. Connolly discusses the location of Troy as well as the palace of Odysseus on Ithaca. Included are photographs of the Aegean islands and the coast of Asia minor. Reading level is 6th grade & up, paperback. (Some parents have objected to the female figures in semi-nude attire based on frescoes from the ancient Mycenaean era). A CCH review $12.95
The Annals of Imperial Rome by Tacitus, Michael Grant (trans.) This great work chronicles the sordid imperial reigns of Tiberius through Nero. He describes Christians the earliest pagan source to do so and how Nero blamed them for the burning of Rome. Here is an honest and sometimes shocking, primary source. A VP review $13.95
The Histories by Herodotus, E.H.Blakeney, editor The first masterpiece of European prose, is built around the great struggle between Greek freedom and oriental despotism. Full of interesting stories of crocodile hunters, the warriors of Sudan, the natural wonders of Egypt and much more. A must-read as Herodotus is considered the Father of History.– A VP review $12.95
Early History of Rome: Books I-IV of the History of Rome from Its Foundation by Livy, Abrey De Selincourt, trans. Livy teaches us why “the study of history is the best medicine for a sick mind”, for it reminds us of the values and deeds of our forefathers. Caesar Augustus commissionedthis history rom Livy, who offers a exciting account of Rome’s early years, from the Trojan War through the founding of the Republic. $11.95
The Landmark Eucyclides: A Comprehensive Guide to the Peloponnesian War by Thucyclides, Robert B Strassler, editor An essential reading for THE account of the central political event of Athen’s Golden Age. Good edition to purchase because of the 100 maps included. (VP) $45.00
Inventions and Invention (covers everything from the lyre, chariot, sundial to Corinthian column, Archimedean screw) pack or Ancient Athletic Games: Heracles and the Olympics pack from the Ancient Greek and Roman Resource Series from Jackdaw Publications An excellent resource including reproducible worksheets and pages, lesson plans, activity suggestions, detailed background information and a bibliography. $24.95 each
Readings on famous characters for grammar to logic stage:
Famous Men of Greece by Poland & Haaren, edited and updated by Rob and Cyndy Shearer The history of Greece is taught chronologically as students read short biographical sketches outlining the lives of important figures. Your fourth or fifth graders should be able to enjoy it independently while still suitable for older students.(GP) $16.95
Alexander the Great by John Gunther This has got to be one of the better children’s biographies ever written. John Gunther tells the story of Alexander’s life with excitement and high-level interest, all the while leading you to think about the growing unrighteousness in his life. (OOP) but this one is worth the effort to find-ACCH review $38.60(used)
Alexander the Great by Andrew Langley In 32 pages it only hits the highlights of Alexander’s life, but still does a decent job giving an overview. Beautifully illustrated. 3rd grade reading (VP) $12.90
*Alexander the Great by Robert Green A concise coverage of the hero’s life. $6.95
The Last Days of Socrates includes two dialogues of Socrates Available from www.rainbowresource.com $9.50
Readings on famous characters for logic to rhetoricstage:
Plutarch’s Lives Arthur Hugh Clough, editor After a successful career in public service, Plutarch settled down to become a priest at Delphi. He studied virtue, and wrote biographies of great men who exhibited these virtues. His “Lives” is an essential source of information on many events and persons in the ancient world.-A VP review Volumes 1 and 2 $20.00 each
The Last Days of Socrates by Plato, Hugh Treddennick, trans. The classic account of the death and trial of Socrates in four classic dialogues. (VP) $11.95
*The Trial and Death of Socrates by Plato (Dover Thrift Edition) Socrates’ conversations with his fellow Athenians are often funny! This edition contains the two dialogs mentioned in the Greenleaf Study Guide (On Piety or The Euthyphro, and The Death of Socrates). Our third graders have actually enjoyed listening to these read out loud. Save this book for another reading with your high schooler when you can discuss more deeply the ideas and issues that it raises. But don’t assume that your third grader won’t enjoy it as well. (GP) $1.50
Alexander the Great Selections from the Arrian by Arrian, J.Gould Gordon Lloyd Arrian is our best source on the man who conquered the world in eleven years. Here we read of Alexander’s arrogance, his magnimity, and his unparalleled prowess as a general. Some of the history’s greatest battles are described in this gripping narrative. A VP review $14.95
Against the World: The Odyssey of Athanasius by Henry W. Coray (VP) about the life of Athanasius who was instrumental for drafting of the Nicene creed $7.90
A Lion In the Gateway by Mary Renault Historical fictional account of the battles between the Greeks and Persians at Marathon, Salamis and Thermopylae. The last of the three was where 300 Spartans and 4000 allies held off the invading Persian army. A stirring account of the world’s most courageous warriors. For ages 10 onwards. OOP $34.95(used)
Readings on science for early grammar stage(4-8 yrs):
How We Learned the Earth was Round by Patricia Lauber (A Let’s Read-and-Find-Out book)A clear explanation of how the Greeks discovered that the world is round and includes instructions for a simple experiment to illustrate the principles. $4.95
*The Librarian Who Measured the Earth by Kathryn Lasky A picture-book biography depicting the life and achievements of Eratosthenes, an ancient Greek who eventually became the head of the famous library in Alexandria. The book tells of how he invented a revolutionary method for measuring the earth’s circumference – by determining the angles of shadows in two cities and the distance between them, and then using geometry to calculate the circumference of the earth. Featuring illustrations with beautiful warm tones of acrylic paintings. $12.56
*Archimedes Takes a Bath by Joan M Lexau A funny book picture book (SL2 reader) Now OOP $56.00(used)
Readings on science for Logic stage(9-12 yrs):
Science in Ancient Greece by Kathryn Gay (Science of the Past series) Science as a discipline began in ancient Greece with the famous Greek philosophers and their question, What is true about the universe? This book briefly introduces us to the most famous of the Greek philosopher-scientists and their contributions to science, as well as Greek advances in mathematics and astronomy.$8.95
Archimedes and the Door to Science by Laura Berquist and Jeane Bendick An interesting account of the life and work of Archimedes, the Greek mathemetician. Clear drawings illustrate the scientific principles clearly and will inspire further investigation. The account includes the famous story of the moment Archimedes finally makes a break through with his discovery of principles of displacement and density and runs through the streets stark naked shouting, “Eureka!”
Aristotle and Scientific Thought (Science Discoveries) by Steve Parker Meaty biographies that convey a good deal of information. Through this chronicle of Aristotle’s major philosophies, it also gives readers a quick overview of his world and times. What sets this account apart is the inclusion of the chapter on Aristotle as naturalist/biologist, an area sometimes neglected in works on his life. Full color illustrations and glossary. $17.55
Readings on science for the rhetoric stage:
Introduction to Aristotle Richard McKeon Preserved by Arabic mathematicians, and canonized by Christian scholars, Aristotle’s works shaped Western thought, science and religion for almost two thousand years. Presumed to be lecture notes for classes at the Lyceum founded by Aristotle in Athens in 336 BC. the writings are included are the whole of Posterior Analytics. Or Logic; De Anima (On the Soul) which includes a discussion on the five senses; The Nichomachean Ethics which concerns the “Universal Good”, and Poetics. Also included are selections from Physics and Metaphysics. A must read by all – A VP review $19.95
Literature Readings for the grammar stage:
*Aesop’s Fables by Jerry Pinkney Illustrations are glorious. Some of the stories are familiar, some are less known selections. A www.chinaberry.com recommendation Age 4-8$19.95
The Aesop for Children by Arnold Lobel A staple classic with accessible text for the very young used by many homeschoolers, but my son preferred the more visually beautiful Pinkney version. $5.95
Literature Readings for the Logic stage:
Plays of Aechalus, Euripedes,and Sophocles in translation ages 9-12 Price: $6.99
Greek and Roman Plays for the Intermediate Grades by Albert Cullum A version for children that distils the essence of the original ancient plays $14.69
Rhetoric Stage Literature Readings:
Bulfinch’s Greek and Roman Mythology: The Age of Fable (Dover Thrift Edition) $3.00 Or Bullfinch’s Mythology. The Odyssey (Part I) The first and best attempt to compile in one book the myths of Greece, Rome, the Age of Fable, as well as Oriental, Celtic, and Norse myths (A complete, containing the Age of Chivalry (legends of King Arthur and the knights of the Middle Ages) and the Legends of Charlemagne, is also available in hardcover and in paperback
The Iliad of Homer Richard Lattimore (trans.) The most valiant of heroes ar epitted one against one another, even the gods and goddesses must take sides. Richard Lattimore’s translation is considered one of the most readable translations. (VP) $9.95
*The Odyssey by Homer, translated by Robert Fitzgerald. Like the Lattimore, it is also done in verse. The difference is that the type in this one is a bit larger and easier to read. Cyndy taught a group of 8 Jr. High students using this translation (A GP review) $10.00
The Republic by Plato, Robin Waterfield, trans. One of the best known books of all time. The central works of the Western world’s most famous philosopher. An enquiry into the morality containing crucial arguments. Essential. A VP review $7.95
Bulfinch’s Mythology. The first and best attempt to compile in one book the myths of Greece, Rome, the Age of Fable, as well as Oriental, Celtic, and Norse myths, it contains the Age of Chivalry (legends of King Arthur and the knights of the Middle Ages) and the Legends of Charlemagne, is also available in hardcover and in paperbackwith interpretative essays by Richard P. Martin (Editor), Sabra Moore (Illustrator) $31.50
Sophocles I (Oepipus the King; Oedipus at Colonus; Antigone) David Greene, trans. Richard Lattimore, editor From the complete Greek Tragedies series. Sophocles, a well-known ancient play writer is simply one of the greatest playwrights of all time. He produced tragedies, especially Oedipus Rex (Rex is Latin for King) that have remained unmatched in all the world’s literature. Oedipus the King has remained the supreme example of tragedy in which he struggles towards truth against overwhelming odds. (VP) $9.00 Xenophon’s Anabasis: Book 1-4 by Maurice W. and Hewitt, Joseph Mather, Joseph W. Hewitt Xenophon was a student and friend of Socrates for a while, who later joined the expedition of Cyrus against his brother and Persian king Artaxerxes II of Persia. When Cyrus was killed, Xenophon became one of the leaders of the army against the Persians and Anabasis is his exciting account of his life as a Greek soldier. $29.95
The Best Things in Life Peter Kreeft A fictional Socrates dialogue concerning what is life, education and thought are all aobut. Imagine Socrates asking a modern university student “Why are you studying for that test?” The student replies, “So I can get good grades” Socrates replies why do you want to get good grades?” Student “So I can get a good job?” Socrates “Why do you want a good job?” Socrates “So I can support a wife and children?” You get the idea. It’s a lot of fun and the students love it. (VP) $11.95
The Unaborted Socrates by Peter Kreeft Subtitled A Dramatic Debate on the Issues Surrounding Abortion (VP) $10.99
ANCIENT GREECE STUDY PACKAGE GLP-005P. $49.75 (GP) includes The Greenleaf Guide to Famous Men of Greece….$8.95, Timeline $4.95
Hands-0n Teaching(Use of pictures, graphs, time-lines, maps, slides, audio/films and activity learning kits/books / Research work on specific projects/ Integrate with art, geography, and music/Build models, make drawings, write stories, play games and make collections and displays):
Use Veritas Press History Flash Cards
Footsteps in Time:The Greeks by Henry Winterfield Excellent hands-on activities for teaching Ancient Greece. Full of crafts to reinforce what you are teaching. Most of the teaching materials can be found around your house. $3.95
Greek Myths by Marilyn Evans and Leslie Tryon contains reproducibles to introduce the fascinating world of Greek and Roman mythology. Includes Greeks and their gods, Phaethon and the Chariot of the Sun, ad more. Full f art activities and writing exercises. Sure to assist in teaching mythology. A VP review $5.95
Ancient Greece Treasure Chest A sturdy cardboard chest with a lock and key contains a whole array of activities to enhance a study of ancient Greece. There is a decoder wheel for ancient Greek, a Labyrinth game, inkpad and stamps to create Greek architectural patterns, stickers, an information booklet, and a model Trojan horse to build. Ages 8 – 13. A GP review $19.95
A Coloring Book of the Olympics from Bellerophon Available from http://www.rainbowresource.com $4.25
A Coloring Book of Ancient Greece from Bellerophon Available from http://www.rainbowresource.com $4.25
Life in Ancient Greece (Dover Coloring Book) scenes from the Parthenon, the trial of Socrates, the Olympic Games, and everyday life in Greece. $”.95
Classical Kids: An Activity Guide to Life in Ancient Greece and Rome by Laurie Carlson provides a multitude of hands-on activities for studying ancient Greece: art, math, cooking, science, and geography projects for ages 5 – 12. $14.95
Ancient Civilizations for Children: Ancient Greece (video)
Clash of the Titans (video rated PG – you should preview it)
Jason and the Argonauts A action-filled and recent film with Hercules taking quite a central role besides Jason. I had to fastforward through one bedroom scene and another scene with sexual innuendos but otherwise quite watchable.
Greek Myths A Jim Weiss audiotape/CD recording suitable for 5+yrs $10.95/$14.95
The Odyssey An Epic Telling Odds Bodkin audiotape/CD reading An exquisite telling in words and accompanied by harp and 12-string guitar. 4 cassette/CD & map & poster set (10+yrs) Available from www.chinaberry.com $34.95/49.95
The Rage of Hercules by Odds Bodkin audiotape/CD rendition of the tale (12 yrs to adult) $19.5/24.95
Archiblocks has a Greek set of architectural blocks made from maple wood from www.zephrypress.com $60.00
is an Internet resource for teachers on a wide variety of African studies topics.
EDUCATION IN JAPAN COMMUNITY Blog 
[…] Exploring ancient civilizations (3) […]