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Colonial Williamsburg Electronic Field Trips
Topics in early American history and science

Grade Levels: 4-12 Length: 60 minutes Taping Rights: 7 days (see note under Registration and Materials) Videocassette: No Print Materials: See Below Web Site: Colonial Williamsburg

Using sites at Colonial Williamsburg as a backdrop, as well as other resources at the restored Virginia settlement, this continuing series of field trips explores social and political issues in early American history, as well as topics in science, the arts, and other curriculum areas.

2001/02 Program Descriptions/Air Dates

1. Washington: Man and Myth—Founding father and first American president George Washington speaks about his early years as a young soldier and politician in Virginia. (Oct 4)

2. Hostages of Two Worlds—Native American children were brought to Williamsburg and taught to be "civilized Englishmen" at the Brafferton School. Caught between two worlds, these children exemplify the clash of cultures that has continued throughout American history. (Nov 1)

3. Building History—A behind-the-scenes tour of Colonial Williamsburg itself shows how tradesmen and historical researchers go about restoring, rebuilding, and re-creating 18th-century houses and other structures. (Dec 6)

4. Mr. Alderson's Farm—In the 18th and 19th centuries, most Americans were farmers. This field trip focuses on rural traditions, the economics of agriculture, and the self-reliance and seasonal rhythms of farm life. (Jan 17)

5. Trail of Whispers—Enslaved African Americans helped one another survive through close networks of "whispered" news—information that built relationships and kept communities close. (Feb 14)

6. Made in America—Throughout America's history, advances in technology have revolutionized the nature of work several times over. This trip travels through three centuries of time to examine technology's effects on labor, the family, and how people perceive their jobs. (Mar 14)

7. Taxes, Tea, and Tyranny—Though Americans had been protesting British taxation for nearly 10 years, the Boston Tea Party in 1773 provided a final spark that united the colonies against Great Britain. (Apr 18)

Registration and Materials

For prices and further information, call (800) 761-8331, e-mail mstutz@cwf.org, or visit the Colonial Williamsburg web site.

2.14	Democratic Principles
2.15	Citizen Rights and Responsibilities
2.20	Historical Perspective