How To Get The Most From Your Letters

This page includes ideas for how your letters could be used as a catalyst for additional learning opportunities.

This list is by no means exhaustive!

General:

-What have you learnt about each historical figure?
-What have you learnt from each historical figure?
-If you could ask each historical figure a question, what would you ask?
-Using the earth as your canvas; create a timeline of significant events using
sticks, stones, and chalk.
-Create your very own vintage letter by using a teabag to stain plain paper. Once dry, write a letter (possibly about yourself) or use as a journaling page for a character analysis or use to draw a timeline.
 

Geography:

Use a map to locate where each historical figure is from. What continent is it in? How far away is it from where you live? Have you ever visited this country? You may also wish to take a look at the flag for that particular country or colour one in.
The book Maps by Aleksandra and Daniel Mizielinski is an excellent additional resource for a quick reference of countries.
 

Art:

Create your very own vintage letter by using a teabag to stain plain paper.
Once dry, write a letter (possibly about yourself), use as a journaling page for a character analysis, draw a timeline, or draw a picture or map!
.
If your letter is from an artist, you could research paintings by the artist and study what medium they use (i.e. watercolours, oils, etc). Pick your favourite picture and have a go at creating your own version too!
 

Vocabulary:

Look up challenging words in a dictionary and discuss what each one means. You may also wish to use these as spelling practise.
 

Science:

If your letter is from a scientist, you could research scientific equipment and discover what each instrument is used for. You may also wish to have fun with some simple kid friendly science experiments. Setting up a learning space with child's microscope and nature treasure is an ideal starting place!

 

 If your letter is from an astronaut then use this as an opportunity to study Space.
 

Literature:

If your letter is from an author, you may wish to read some of the books that they have written.
 

Mathematics:

Plot dates on a timeline. Research when each historical figure was born and died and work out how old they were and how many years ago this was.
  

History:

Were men and women treated the same? How did the modes of transport
differ? How was the language different?
Plot dates on a time line to see an overview of the main events in peoples
lives.

 
   
  

How to stain paper with a tea bag:

Brew two or three tea bags in a cup of hot water for five to 10 minutes.  Remove the tea bags from the water and allow them to cool completely before handling them. Brush the front and back of the paper evenly with a tea bag or by dipping a paintbrush into the tea and brushing it onto the paper. Allow to dry.