When I was growing up I was absolutely fascinated by Helen Keller. She showed such amazing strength of character and will power. I can probably trace my fascination with sign language back to then. I read a biography about her in 4th grade and taught myself how to finger spell. In high school I read her autobiography*, fascinating book.
But I digress
Inspiration for our Helen Keller lesson
We read the Picture Book of Helen Keller, which like other books in the series, gives a nice concise timeline of her life and why she is important.
Our super simple Helen Keller lesson
Afterwards we talked about the challenges of being blind and having to have someone lead you around, and how hard it must have been to not be able to tell what you want for so long.
Then we wrote our names out in Braille, which took tremendous concentration, as you can tell by Batman’s sticking his tongue out.
One of the things that tickled me about this lesson was during our trip to Williamsburg the kids kept trying to imitate Helen Keller and the signs she used for her parents and for bread during the trip. I guess it made a fairly deep impact.
More famous Americans
MaryAnne K says
May 1, 2012 at 12:18 pmI remember reading about Helen Keller and being fascinated by her and her life in fourth grade, as well! We'll have to look for that book.
Phyllis says
May 1, 2012 at 1:49 pmIt is great when a lesson hits home like that. Great job!
Raising a Happy Child says
May 1, 2012 at 8:01 pmEven we knew about Helen Keller when I was growing up. I also found the story of her life fascinating. I have to look for this book for Anna because she mentioned wanting to read more about Helen Keller.
Susan says
May 1, 2012 at 9:35 pmI loved Helen Keller as a kid, too, and we've read this book 🙂 David A. Adler's picture book biographies are very well done.
Kelly says
May 2, 2012 at 12:21 amI think I was about the same age when I read her biography. Great hero for a young girl. You always come up with the best hands on lesson plans. Your kids are lucky.
Kelly at Little Wonders' Days