William F. Natale Jr.
It is recommended that the above mentioned strategies for motivating reading and writing be used prior to the study of Greek and Roman history.
A four to six week period of time, preferably early in the school year, is recommended as a time to familiarize children with stories from Greek and Roman mythology, During this time the teacher should make good stories available, introduce books to children, read to the class and allow time each day for independent reading, These things can and should be done in conjunction with their regular reading program.
During this same period of time other activities mentioned can be integrated into other areas of the school day, such as English, art, and social studies. Some activities may be used more often than others, others might be left out entirely, while some might be returned to again and again. All of this will be at the discretion of the classroom teacher to fit his or her individual classroom needs.
After this initial time period and while stories from the myths are still fresh in the children’s minds, it is time to begin the introduction to Greek and Roman history.
The activities to motivate reading and writing can continue as the history phase is taught and also adapted to fit new material as an ongoing stimulus for the rest of the year.