New Book of Art & Craft Activities!

Hands on History

Hands On History by Rebecca Carnihan. Folens 2008 ISBN: 978 1 84191 4671  

The subtitle to this book says it all: 'Exciting displays and activities for delivering a creative curriculum through history.' The book is jammed full of arts and craft activities appropriate for all levels of Primary age pupils, and relating to most history topics of the KSt1 and KSt2 curriculum. Step by step instructions are included, and lots of illustrations show the practical outcomes of pupils' work, and it all looks great fun. Certainly my daughter who is in Year 4 couldn't wait to tackle the Victorian houses activities to support her study of the Victorians. What this book does not do however, is develop the skills and concepts necessary for pupils to become competent historians. There are some suggestions within the text for history activities to support the art and craft activities, and pupils will develop a better understanding of the Egyptians, for instance, by making Egyptian necklaces, canopic jars or a Tutankhamun sculpture, but these activities support work in history rather than replacing it. There are loads of exciting and creative activities in this book, using easily obtainable materials. Most are obviously tried and tested and will bring a buzz of excitement and colour to classrooms.