Ellis Island and Beyond

Highly involving cross-curricular activities survey immigration from Native Americans to recent immigrants from Asia, South America, and former Soviet bloc countries. Students are asked to create an archaeological dig site, interview an immigrant, research their town's history, compare and contrast European and Native American points of view, examine ''push'' and ''pull'' factors for several immigrant groups, and write a family history. Units include ''Sleuthing Through the Past,'' ''Who Was Here First?,'' and ''Not All Immigrants Came Here Because They Wanted To.'' The final unit, a complete simulation, lets students experience Ellis Island firsthand. Grades 4-8. Glossary. Annotated book list. Answer key. Illustrated. JWW971.