Vestal's 21st Century Classroom

with Meghan Vestal

8 Colonial Virginia Lessons

I’m back with more hands-on ways to teach Virginia Studies throughout the school year! So far, we’ve explored ways to creatively teach regions of Virginia, Virginia Indians, and Jamestown. In this post, we’ll continue our journey through the Virginia Studies curriculum by investigating 8 colonial Virginia lessons and activities your students are sure to love! Looking for more SOL-aligned ... Read More about 8 Colonial Virginia Lessons

8 Jamestown Activities and Games

It is exciting that the first permanent English settlement in North America was started in the state where we live! Even though Jamestown eventually grew into a thriving colony, its early history is full of hardship. Students are always fascinated by the challenges the Jamestown settlers experienced, making this a great unit to get students excited about Virginia Studies. Here are 8 Jamestown ... Read More about 8 Jamestown Activities and Games

Back to School Science Activities for Upper Elementary

You know what makes for the best first week of school… back to school science activities! When it comes to your first week activities, you can use the traditional get to know you games. But, by the time students get to upper elementary, they’ve already done those games several times. Using back to school science activities is not only one of the best first day of school activities, but it is ... Read More about Back to School Science Activities for Upper Elementary

7 Virginia Indians Lessons and Activities

Do you know one of my favorite things about teaching fourth grade in Virginia? Teaching Virginia Studies! I have loved history since I was a kid, and helping students find that same love through hands-on activities is one of my passions. In this post, you’ll find some of my favorite Virginia Indians lessons and activities to use when teaching Virginia Studies. With these activities, you’ll ... Read More about 7 Virginia Indians Lessons and Activities