To meet the objectives of the unit, each student receives a copy of the novel to read. Students also bring to class articles, books, other novels or resources they discover which reinforce the information we're studying. Students also complete art projects, written papers, oral presentations, research projects, and a variety of other projects which are designed to meet different students' learning styles. As a result of reading this novel, several students have chosen other pieces of regional literature as alternative or free reading books. Funding for the supplies or resources needed is provided by our school's general budget.
Students buy supplies for projects themselves or borrow from the art department.
I have been teaching this unit for five years to sophomore classes of approximately 45 students. Each year it has grown in length and depth of involvement in projects and activities. The unit benefits the students by allowing them to learn about and investigate another time period in our region's history. It also provides students the opportunity to explore their strengths by giving them a variety of possible projects. The first year I conducted the unit, Frederick Manfred was still alive, so I contacted him by mail.