1. “My Brother Sam Is Dead”

2. Historical fiction Introduction…
Whenever you study history, it’s helpful to “put yourself in the shoes” of those you are studying.
Since virtual reality hasn’t made it’s way into the classroom yet, the best way we can do that ~ the best way we can experience history ~ is through the use of
Historical fiction

3. Setting the Stage…
In order to “experience” the American Revolution, we’re going to read the novel “My Brother Sam Is Dead” ~ the story of a colonial teenager during the war.
Before we start reading, however, we need to “set the stage” by making sure we understand where people stood on the issue of breaking away from England.

4. At the time of the Revolution people held one of three basic opinions about our relationship with England. LETS ADD THESE TO OUR CLASS NOTES:
OPINIONS ON WAR
LOYALISTS ~
didn’t want to break away
willing to fight for England
also called TORIES
PATRIOTS ~
wanted independence
willing to fight to become free
England called them REBELS
MODERATES ~
didn’t want war
wanted to compromise
As you read “My Brother Sam Is Dead” you’ll meet people who fall into each of these categories…

5. GRAB A BOOK and let’s get started…
Let’s start reading!!
So, we’re going to “join” a colonial family and walk in their shoes as they experience one of the most dramatic periods of our American family’s history.
Since historic fiction is a combination of facts and story-telling, we’ll pause every so often in order for you to process what you’ve read by hunting for “Facts-in-the-Fiction” but right now
GRAB A BOOK and let’s get started…