Toolbox

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the expectations of me if I am accepted as a participant?

Participants are expected to:

  • continue their involvement in the project for three years;
  • attend 75 percent of the project activities;
  • participate fully in discussions and activities as a member of the TAH project cohort;
  • develop and implement original lesson plans – 3 lesson plans in Year One; 6 per year in Years Two and Three;
  • consult with project team and historians on lesson plan development;
  • allow the project leader to observe you implementing a lesson (one classroom observation in Year One);
  • take a pre-test and a post-test;
  • administer pre- and post-tests to your students on your lesson plans;
  • submit your lesson plans in designated format(s) for inclusion on the project Web site.

What are the benefits to me and my students of my participation in the TAH project?

  • The project is designed to develop exemplary history teaching and learning – you will build content and pedagogy knowledge and have an opportunity to practice new skills.
  • You will have first-hand experiences in some of Indiana’s prime historical sites and museums.
  • You will receive a $700 stipend, field trip expenses paid by the grant, and copies of books used in the project.
  • You will have an opportunity to create new lesson plans with the help of experts in American history and history education.
  • You will be part of a mentoring network of historians, teachers, and cultural institution staff.
  • You will have the unique opportunity to do your lesson planning in consultation with education experts and historians.
  • You will have rich opportunities for reflection and feedback on lessons and teaching strategies.

What happens during the retreats?

The retreats will combine tours of the location, lectures and discussion facilitated by historians and education experts, opportunities to network with other teacher participants and faculty, and fun! We will provide you with a relaxing atmosphere for learning, comfortable lodging (as appropriate for distance), and good food. The first retreat begins on Friday, October 31st when participants and the project team meet in the Bloomington High School North parking lot, load onto a Star Coach bus, and travel to New Harmony, IN. The retreat ends back at BHSN on Sunday, Nov. 1st—arriving back in Bloomington around 4pm.

Will I have to arrange for substitutes to participate? If so, who will pay for the subs?

Some of the project activities take place during the school day, so substitute teachers will be required. However, you have the full support of MCCSC and your building principal and will be able to schedule subs—at the grant’s expense.

Will I get paid to participate?

Yes. You will receive a $700 stipend at the completion of the requirements for Year One – after the end of the spring conference to be held in May 2010.

What sort of out-of-pocket expenses should I expect if I participate?

The only out-of-pocket expenses you might have would be for incidental items you purchase on retreats or field trips.

Will I have to pay for the books used for the Book Talks?

No. Each participant will receive a copy of the books.

How do I apply to participate in the project?

Applying is very easy. Simply click on “Application” in this Toolbox, complete the fields requesting information, and then click "Submit Application." To apply using a paper application or for more information, contact Connie Ables.