My Illinois by Robert C. Law

Review by Susan Reed from The Old Schoolhouse Magazine

Experience the history of Illinois in a whole new way with a unique, reader friendly, newspaper format. My Illinois consists of 32 issues filled with colorful maps, photos and illustrations that draw the reader into the fascinating history of Illinois. This history of Illinois is told as if it is current news, where people and places of the past come to life as if they were with us today.

As a direct teaching aid, the teacher’s manual provides the instructor with everything needed to make teaching Illinois a success. The text of each issue is accompanied by lesson goals, detailed notes and background information which provides the essential facts for each lesson. Interactive questions encourage the student to ask questions, and strive to create teachable moments between the student and instructor. The teacher’s manual also includes the answer guide to the mid-term and final tests.

My Illinois was written for the fourth-grade classroom; but is well suited for higher grade levels. I used this curriculum with my sixth grader; and I would recommend it for fourth through eighth graders. After growing up in Illinois, I was happy to review this product and teach my daughter about the land of Lincoln. I especially enjoyed teaching Issue 31 because Illinois farms feed America. I have seen the importance of farming and it takes a lot of hard work to grow the crops and raise the animals. My daughter has learned so much about the history of Illinois through this curriculum. My Illinois is a great way to teach state history! Instead of overwhelming the student with another textbook, each issue consists of a 4-page handout covering a specific time period or topic. Make My Illinois a part of your student’s curriculum and prepare to embark on a journey neither of you will ever forget.

-Product review by Susan Reed, The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, LLC, January, 2018