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Marco Polo Unit Study – Terracotta Warriors and Free Resources

January 17, 2015 | 4 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Taking a bunny trail in our Marco Polo Unit Study to talk about the Terracotta Warriors was a fun way to spend the morning as we debated whether or not Marco Polo really visited all the places he claimed.

Salt Dough Recipe

Too, though we have been adding to our homeschooling supplies when we moved here, we still didn’t find any clay yet.

That is okay because salt dough is pretty cheap and you can make just about anything out of it besides salt dough maps.

So I got our trusty recipe shown in the picture above and followed the salt dough recipe found here too and we were in business.

Tiny researched a few of the free websites on line to see how the Terracotta Warriors were made and then he made his version of a warrior.

This is an activity he can do by himself too, which I loved.

Afterwards, he used some tempera paints we did find here and gave his warrior a color he thought he would have been when they were discovered.

Pretty fun and a pretty easy activity for this unit study!

Marco Polo Unit Study Terra Cotta Warriors

Marco Polo Unit Study–Terracotta Warriors and Free Resources

Too, I have some free resources today that will help to round out your unit study.

On line resources have become really important to us since we couldn’t bring all of our books when we moved here to Ecuador.
So I have taken some time in putting together some of the more helpful links and hope you find them helpful too.

Helpful Lessons Plans and Background Information

  • Wonderful article with a visual that shows how the  Terracotta Warriors were made
  • On the Road with Marco Polo
  • Pretty cool infographic timeline about Marco Polo. Be sure to zoom in if the image is small.
  • Check out the activities Highhill homeschool did for their co-op on China
  • Mapping the Italian City- States Map Activity
  • Great info at Heritage History about Marco Polo.

Free Teacher’s Guides

  • Teacher’s Guide by Calliope for Marco Polo. 5 pages. I love this guide because it gives you ideas for extra activities with a little bit of background information.
  • Teacher’s Guide on Life in Medieval Europe.. This is a very helpful guide along with a timeline and activities to do and has information about what was going on in Marco Polo’s life during the medieval times in Europe.
  • Teacher’s Guide on Medieval China. Even though this free guide is based on a DVD, the ideas in it are still great with background information and to spark another topic you may want to learn about.
  • Teacher’s Guide Age of Exploration. . This has helpful information on several explorers, but also background information about Marco Polo.

Other Free Printables

Over at the homeschool den, Liesl has some great free printable notebooking pages about Marco Polo and Genghis Kahn notebooking pages.

Over at 123 Homeschool 4 Me, Beth has an early Explorers Unit and free Marco Polo lapbook.

Marco Polo Unit Study–Terracotta Warriors and Free Resources

YouTube Marco Polo

The Mongol Empire “Kublai Khan” History Channel For a middle school to high school student because it’s not cartoonish, but more factual type of presentation.  Appreciated by an older student.

Wait for it! Crash Course on the Mongol. Fun! From younger to older will enjoy this lively presentation.

Watch the building of a yurt in fast time.

Marco Polo Unit Study Hands-on Activities

  • Make a Persian Mosaic
  • Learn how to make the extend a timeline book
  • Make Terra Cotta Warriors
  • Grab these free Notebooking Pages
  • Create this salt dough map of the Travels of Marco Polo and grab the printable map flags.

Books About Marco Polo

10 Marco Polo Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

Add some of these fun books about Marco Polo to your home library or use them in your unit studies.

Image for Marco Polo

Marco Polo

The amazing story of a Venetian trader who becomes an aide to the great Kublai Khan comes to life in this retelling for students by Manuel Komroff. Follow along as Marco Polo travels through deserts littered with bones, encounters animals previously unknown to Europeans, and comes to serve in the court of one of the greatest kingdoms ever known.Included is a gorgeous new map tracing his journey, and 29 full page illustrations from an early edition written for adults.The text in this edition is a reprint of the original Messner Biography, a series that was created for students. "Well told and with engaging narratives, they unknowingly flow nicely from story to fact. You will find a plethora of information packed between these pages, not only about the title’s subject, but the subject's time and the world they lived in."

Image for The Adventures of Marco Polo

The Adventures of Marco Polo

Was Marco Polo the world's greatest explorer -- or the world's greatest liar? Newbery Medalist Russell Freedman turns his eagle eye on the enigmatic Marco Polo in his most exciting biography yet.

He claimed to have seen rocks burn, bandits command sandstorms, lions tamed with a look, and sorcerers charm sharks while divers gathered pearls on the ocean floor. Marco Polo shook Europe with descriptions of the world he'd seen on his epic journey to the court of Kublai Khan.

But was Marco Polo the world's most accomplished explorer? Had he really seen the "Roof of the World" in Central Asia, and the "City of Heaven" in far-off China? Or was he a charlatan who saw nothing more than the conjurings of his inventive mind? Join Russell Freedman as he tackles a centuries-old mystery.

Image for The Story of Marco Polo

The Story of Marco Polo

This is volume number 22 in the Signature Books series for young readers. This series, under the general editorship of Enid Lamonte Meadowcroft, provides easy to read, exciting stories based upon the lives of historical figures. A vivid story of the life and adventures of perhaps the most romantic traveler of all time, a man who returned from the East with tales so fantastic that no one believed him until he was vindicated by later travelers.

Image for Animals Marco Polo Saw (Explorer Series)

Animals Marco Polo Saw (Explorer Series)

A continuation of the Explorers series by award-winning author Sandra Markle, Animals Marco Polo Saw brings to life the amazing, exotic animals Marco Polo encountered during his explorations in Asia, how the animals sometimes affected the outcome of the journey, and even helped the explorer survive!

Image for Marco Polo (Junior World Explorers)

Marco Polo (Junior World Explorers)

Examines the political forces and personal ambition that drove Marco Polo in his explorations.

Image for The Travels of Marco Polo

The Travels of Marco Polo

Marco Polo was the most famous traveller of his time. His voyages began in 1271 with a visit to China, after which he served the Kubilai Khan on numerous diplomatic missions. On his return to the West, he was made a prisoner of war and met Rustichello of Pisa, with whom he collaborated on this book. The accounts of his travels provide a fascinating glimpse of the different societies he encountered: their religions, customs, ceremonies and way of life; on the spices and silks of the East; on precious gems, exotic vegetation and wild beasts. He tells the story of the holy shoemaker, the wicked caliph and the three kings, among a great many others, evoking a remote and long-vanished world with colour and immediacy. He found himself traversing the most exotic lands-from the dazzling Mongol empire to Tibet and Burma. This fascinating chronicle still serves as the most vivid depiction of the mysterious East in the Middle Ages.

Image for He Went With Marco Polo

He Went With Marco Polo

Cathay is a long way from his home in Venice, but when 14-year-old gondolier, Tonio Tumba receives the chance of a lifetime, he doesn’t say no. Leaving behind his only possession, a shabby green gondola, Tonio eagerly joins Marco Polo on his adventure.

As Tonio and the Polo family travel the dangerous silk road to modern-day China, they encounter many fascinating people and dangerous perils. When Tonio rides into Cathay on one of the Khan’s elephants, he says to his friend, Pietro: “Elephants are grand… but give me a horse any time – unless I could have a gondola. When we get back to Venice, I’ll take you out in mine.”

There are many wonderful sights, amazing inventions and great riches to discover, though Tonio looks forward to getting back home - but many years will pass before his chance to see the canals of Venice again. When so much has changed, will Tonio find anything worth returning for?

Louise Andrews Kent is a master storyteller, weaving historical accuracy and immersive adventure into one epic voyage of discovery.

This new edition features all the original illustrations and clean, readable text. It is a fantastic living book teaching about history and geography, recommended for ages 10 and up.

Image for Genghis Khan and the Mongol Horde (World Landmark Books)

Genghis Khan and the Mongol Horde (World Landmark Books)

Excellent, historic story well told by Harold Lamb and beautifully illustrated by Elton Fax. Originally published in 1954, this paperback edition was released in 1982.

Image for Marco Polo: Overland to China (In the Footsteps of Explorers)

Marco Polo: Overland to China (In the Footsteps of Explorers)

Relive Italian voyager Marco Polo's adventures in China in1275, including his legendary meeting with Kublai Khan, emperor of the powerful Mongol Empire. This exciting new book separates fact from myth using excerpts from Polo's actual journals and vivid illustrations and photographs to portray Polo himself and his impressions of the unique traditions and customs of the Mongols. A recipe from the period is also included. Topics include - what the Medieval period meant to Europe and exploration - the Silk Road - Marco Polo's service in Kublai Khan's court - life at sea and in the Mongol Empire - Marco Polo's influence on later explorers Teacher's guide available.

Image for Marco Polo: his travels and adventures.

Marco Polo: his travels and adventures.

This edition is presented complete and unabridged, with larger text for easier reading by younger readers, and all the original illustrations and decorations.“I have attempted to transform the somewhat dry and monotonous translation of this narrative into an entertaining story, that may engage the attention and the interest of my young readers; for which it certainly presents ample opportunities. If the task is properly done, no one can fail to follow Marco Polo from his Venetian home, across the entire continent of Asia to the court of Kublai Khan, and in his various adventures and journeys while in the far-off Orient, without eager curiosity and ever-deepening interest. The central figure of the story is heroic, for Marco Polo was in all things manly, brave, persevering, intelligent, and chivalrous; and the scenes and incidents in which he was the leading actor were in the highest degree thrilling and dramatic.”-From the Preface by the Author.

Free Coloring Pages Marco Polo

I listed a few coloring pages here too for those of any age, K to Gray, that like to color. That includes me.  Am I the only one that prints a page for myself and color with my kids? It’s so relaxing in a way.

marco_poloviaggio_marco_polo
mpolomapkublai
Marco-PoloMarco-Polo 2
  • Marco Polo free coloring page.
  • Ship Marco Polo
  • Color on line.
  • Educational Coloring Pages

Free Country Report

Mongolia Country Report

Grab my free country report on the country of Mongolia from my geography page to add to your notebook or study. This is a fun and quick report for a middle or high school student to do.

Though not free, there are lots of great books to choose from for any age. Tiny loved the easy Junior Explorer book because it was a great read in a day or two.

Marco Polo Unit Study – Terracotta Warriors and Free Resources

How to Get the Free Marco Polo Lapbook

Now, how to grab the free printable. It’s a subscriber freebie.

When you sign up to follow me, you get access to this freebie.

1) Sign up on my email list.
2) Grab the printable.
3) Last, look for my emails in your inbox as a follower. Glad to have you.

Hugs and love ya,

Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas

4 CommentsFiled Under: 1. My FREE Learning Printables {Any Topic}, Ancient Civilizations, Geography Based, Hands-On Activities, History Based, History Resources Tagged With: ancient civilizations, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling

Free Extend a Timeline Book Marco Polo Unit Study

January 9, 2015 | 17 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a free extend a timeline book Marco Pol, which is the next interactive minibook we did on our Marco Polo Unit Study.

And well, we found it kind of fun and yes, easy. The printables are a subscriber only freebie and I would love for you to follow and grab it.

Free Extend a Timeline Book Marco Polo Unit Study

Look at the steps below on how to do this free extend a timeline book.

First, it’s easier to have your child write on a full size page instead of the smaller strip.  So fill in the timeline first on the full size page before you cut the strips.

Extend a Timeline Book – Hands-On History

I have some information on the downloadable to help you fill out the timeline and then as I go along I will add a more comprehensive timeline on this unit study.

Free Extend a Timeline Book Marco Polo Unit Study

Too, here in Ecuador I haven’t been able to find cardstock yet, but I had photo paper and since it’s more stiff, I used that for the cover page or 3 masted ship, which by the way is the kind of ship Marco Polo would have traveled in.

You want to print out the cover page on stiffer paper or cardstock and print out the timeline on regular paper so the strip is easier to fold.

Fold the cover sheet in half and cut down the middle.

Then cut out the timeline strips after they are filled in and fold back the part on the strip (gray part) where the two strips glue together.

Timeline Book – Hands-On History

After you download the printables, you will see that there are two strips that need to be glued together to form one long strip or timeline that will extend across both halves of the cover page.

I have instructions on the printables or tabs to show you where you are suppose to glue it in case this sounds all jibberish.

Here is the picture below after gluing the two strips together. Fold the crease and let it dry for a while.  And then crease both ends of the strip where they will attach to the cover page.

Next work on folding it accordion style. 

You can see the front of the timeline faintly when you turn the strip on the back to start folding. 

So we just folded it naturally dividing the time periods with the faint lines showing through from the front.

The picture below on the left shows us folding it accordion style and the picture on the right shows how it looked before we glued it on but after we messed with folding it.

It doesn’t have to be perfect, just accordion like and it will work.

Then, flatten out the end pieces of the strip before you glue then onto the cover.

Glue the strips onto the bottom of the cover page and not in the middle or higher so that the book will stand somewhat on it’s own.

Then taaa daaa, look at our interactive extend a timeline book. 

But, we have one more secret and that is where we will placing this book, but I can’t tell you yet.

Okay, one clue and that is Tiny is working on a project for Marco Polo and this is one piece to it.

I can’t wait till he’s finished to show it to you. Here is how the printables look below.

Free Extend a Timeline Book Marco Polo Unit Study
Free Extend a Timeline Book Marco Polo Unit Study

Marco Polo Lapbook and Unit Study

First, look at these minibooks that are included in this download.

  • Extend a Timeline Book Printable
  • Along the Journey
  • Lapbook Cover
  • Soldier, Merchant, Prisoner
  • Places outside of China
  • About the Mongols
  • Early Life of Marco Polo
  • Did You Know this
  • Travels
  • Great Khan

Next, look at these books about Marco Polo.

Books About Marco Polo

10 Marco Polo Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

Add some of these fun books about Marco Polo to your home library or use them in your unit studies.

Image for Marco Polo

Marco Polo

The amazing story of a Venetian trader who becomes an aide to the great Kublai Khan comes to life in this retelling for students by Manuel Komroff. Follow along as Marco Polo travels through deserts littered with bones, encounters animals previously unknown to Europeans, and comes to serve in the court of one of the greatest kingdoms ever known.Included is a gorgeous new map tracing his journey, and 29 full page illustrations from an early edition written for adults.The text in this edition is a reprint of the original Messner Biography, a series that was created for students. "Well told and with engaging narratives, they unknowingly flow nicely from story to fact. You will find a plethora of information packed between these pages, not only about the title’s subject, but the subject's time and the world they lived in."

Image for The Adventures of Marco Polo

The Adventures of Marco Polo

Was Marco Polo the world's greatest explorer -- or the world's greatest liar? Newbery Medalist Russell Freedman turns his eagle eye on the enigmatic Marco Polo in his most exciting biography yet.

He claimed to have seen rocks burn, bandits command sandstorms, lions tamed with a look, and sorcerers charm sharks while divers gathered pearls on the ocean floor. Marco Polo shook Europe with descriptions of the world he'd seen on his epic journey to the court of Kublai Khan.

But was Marco Polo the world's most accomplished explorer? Had he really seen the "Roof of the World" in Central Asia, and the "City of Heaven" in far-off China? Or was he a charlatan who saw nothing more than the conjurings of his inventive mind? Join Russell Freedman as he tackles a centuries-old mystery.

Image for The Story of Marco Polo

The Story of Marco Polo

This is volume number 22 in the Signature Books series for young readers. This series, under the general editorship of Enid Lamonte Meadowcroft, provides easy to read, exciting stories based upon the lives of historical figures. A vivid story of the life and adventures of perhaps the most romantic traveler of all time, a man who returned from the East with tales so fantastic that no one believed him until he was vindicated by later travelers.

Image for Animals Marco Polo Saw (Explorer Series)

Animals Marco Polo Saw (Explorer Series)

A continuation of the Explorers series by award-winning author Sandra Markle, Animals Marco Polo Saw brings to life the amazing, exotic animals Marco Polo encountered during his explorations in Asia, how the animals sometimes affected the outcome of the journey, and even helped the explorer survive!

Image for Marco Polo (Junior World Explorers)

Marco Polo (Junior World Explorers)

Examines the political forces and personal ambition that drove Marco Polo in his explorations.

Image for The Travels of Marco Polo

The Travels of Marco Polo

Marco Polo was the most famous traveller of his time. His voyages began in 1271 with a visit to China, after which he served the Kubilai Khan on numerous diplomatic missions. On his return to the West, he was made a prisoner of war and met Rustichello of Pisa, with whom he collaborated on this book. The accounts of his travels provide a fascinating glimpse of the different societies he encountered: their religions, customs, ceremonies and way of life; on the spices and silks of the East; on precious gems, exotic vegetation and wild beasts. He tells the story of the holy shoemaker, the wicked caliph and the three kings, among a great many others, evoking a remote and long-vanished world with colour and immediacy. He found himself traversing the most exotic lands-from the dazzling Mongol empire to Tibet and Burma. This fascinating chronicle still serves as the most vivid depiction of the mysterious East in the Middle Ages.

Image for He Went With Marco Polo

He Went With Marco Polo

Cathay is a long way from his home in Venice, but when 14-year-old gondolier, Tonio Tumba receives the chance of a lifetime, he doesn’t say no. Leaving behind his only possession, a shabby green gondola, Tonio eagerly joins Marco Polo on his adventure.

As Tonio and the Polo family travel the dangerous silk road to modern-day China, they encounter many fascinating people and dangerous perils. When Tonio rides into Cathay on one of the Khan’s elephants, he says to his friend, Pietro: “Elephants are grand… but give me a horse any time – unless I could have a gondola. When we get back to Venice, I’ll take you out in mine.”

There are many wonderful sights, amazing inventions and great riches to discover, though Tonio looks forward to getting back home - but many years will pass before his chance to see the canals of Venice again. When so much has changed, will Tonio find anything worth returning for?

Louise Andrews Kent is a master storyteller, weaving historical accuracy and immersive adventure into one epic voyage of discovery.

This new edition features all the original illustrations and clean, readable text. It is a fantastic living book teaching about history and geography, recommended for ages 10 and up.

Image for Genghis Khan and the Mongol Horde (World Landmark Books)

Genghis Khan and the Mongol Horde (World Landmark Books)

Excellent, historic story well told by Harold Lamb and beautifully illustrated by Elton Fax. Originally published in 1954, this paperback edition was released in 1982.

Image for Marco Polo: Overland to China (In the Footsteps of Explorers)

Marco Polo: Overland to China (In the Footsteps of Explorers)

Relive Italian voyager Marco Polo's adventures in China in1275, including his legendary meeting with Kublai Khan, emperor of the powerful Mongol Empire. This exciting new book separates fact from myth using excerpts from Polo's actual journals and vivid illustrations and photographs to portray Polo himself and his impressions of the unique traditions and customs of the Mongols. A recipe from the period is also included. Topics include - what the Medieval period meant to Europe and exploration - the Silk Road - Marco Polo's service in Kublai Khan's court - life at sea and in the Mongol Empire - Marco Polo's influence on later explorers Teacher's guide available.

Image for Marco Polo: his travels and adventures.

Marco Polo: his travels and adventures.

This edition is presented complete and unabridged, with larger text for easier reading by younger readers, and all the original illustrations and decorations.“I have attempted to transform the somewhat dry and monotonous translation of this narrative into an entertaining story, that may engage the attention and the interest of my young readers; for which it certainly presents ample opportunities. If the task is properly done, no one can fail to follow Marco Polo from his Venetian home, across the entire continent of Asia to the court of Kublai Khan, and in his various adventures and journeys while in the far-off Orient, without eager curiosity and ever-deepening interest. The central figure of the story is heroic, for Marco Polo was in all things manly, brave, persevering, intelligent, and chivalrous; and the scenes and incidents in which he was the leading actor were in the highest degree thrilling and dramatic.”-From the Preface by the Author.

Moreover, look at more ideas for your unit study.

Marco Polo Unit Study Hands-on Activities

  • Make a Persian Mosaic
  • Learn how to make the extend a timeline book
  • Make Terra Cotta Warriors
  • Grab these free Notebooking Pages
  • Create this salt dough map of the Travels of Marco Polo and grab the printable map flags.

How to Get the Free Marco Polo Lapbook

Now, how to grab the free printable. It’s a subscriber freebie.

When you sign up to follow me, you get access to this freebie.

1) Sign up on my email list.
2) Grab the printable.
3) Last, look for my emails in your inbox as a follower. Glad to have you.

Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas

Check out the other hands-on activities so far for our Marco Polo Unit Study.

Persian Mosaic Craft Marco Polo Unit Study

Create a Mythological Map – Marco Polo Unit Study

And then check out some of the Marco Polo books we are using and loving!

17 CommentsFiled Under: Ancient Civilizations, Geography Based, Hands-On Activities, History Based Tagged With: hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, lapbook

2 Pages Per Month At A Glance Academic Calendar {2015 – 2016} Sea Crystals Color

January 8, 2015 | 2 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

The first of the 2 page per month at a glance academic calendar for the 2015-2016 school year is ready!  And I am loving it. I already printed my copy and have it in my planner.

2 Pages Per Month At A Glance Academic Calendar

Just a heads up, remember I luv color so the calendar is a color calendar. It is a two page spread calendar that gives you plenty of room to write in.

At the top right side, I have a place on the first month, which is July for you to jot down projected dates for school to begin and end.  After that month, the box at the top right on the other pages are for you to track what is priority whether it’s dates to remember, projects or record keeping.

Remember too though I say it’s an academic calendar, it is 12 months so that you can either use it for year around homeschooling or just to note dates for the full year.

Bottom line, you get a full year to help track like we live life, year around and not just for a nine month school year.  Too, when you download the digital 2 pages per month at a glance calendar, you can print off as many copies as you like for your personal use.

If you use my Forever Blog Planner, you may want to add it to that planner, or your Curriculum Planner or Home Management Binder.

 

2015 - 2016 2 page per month Academic Sea Crystals c

 

2015 - 2016 2 page per month Academic Sea Crystals 2cGuess what? You can get it for only $.99 cents. Instant Download.

Important: READ THIS FIRST.

Before you email me asking where your download link is or tell me that it is not working, read this to ensure that you get your pretties timely and that you don’t pay for something and not get it.

  • All my products are digital.  You will not receive a physical product for anything in my store.  A digital physical year calendar does not mean a physical product or calendar.
  • Downloads are INSTANT.  When you pay, you will receive an email with a download link INSTANTLY.  Depending on your internet connection, the email could be just 30 seconds or so, or a bit longer.  The point is it will be soon, not a week later,etc.
  • The email with the download link will go to the email you used for paypal. If you used your husband’s paypal, your downloads will go to that email. Please check that email and your spam before emailing me telling me you can’t find it.
  • Links are TIME SENSITIVE, meaning you need to download right then AND save to your computer.  Please do not email me a week, two weeks or a month later telling me the “link  is not working” because it has expired or because you did not save it to your device.  I will not respond to those emails.
  • If a link is not “clickable” when you get your product download email, then copy/paste the link in your browser and your digital product will open.
  • Please put my email tina @ tinasdynamichomeschoolplus dot com in your address/contact list so that your product does not go to spam.

MY GUARANTEE:  To treat you like I want to be treated which means I know at times technical problems may cause glitches, so I will do everything possible to make your experience here pleasant.  I value your business and value you as a follower.   I stand behind my products because they are actual products I use and benefit from too.  Though I cannot refund purchases after you have been given access to them, I will do what I can to be sure you are a pleased customer.

Hugs and love ya,

Also,check out the Top 10 Favorites of the 7 Step Homeschool Planner.

Also. grab Free Year At a Glance Form – For those Buried in the Organizing Details

And if you want to get started building your planner, then click the 7 Steps below:

Step 1. Choose a Pretty Front/Back Cover

Step. 2. Choose Calendars/Appointment Keepers

Step 3. Choose Goals/Objectives

Step 4. Choose Lesson Planning Pages Right For You!

Step 5a. Choose Unique forms JUST for You!

Step 5b. Choose MORE Unique Forms JUST for You!

Step 5c. Choose MORE MORE Unique Forms Just for You!

Step 6. Personalize It

Step 7. Bind it! Love it!

Linking up @ these awesome places:

Fridays Unfolded |Link Party Palooza |Mom 2 Mom Monday |Hip Homeschool Hop |Titus 2 Tuesday | Turn it Up Tuesday | Laugh & Learn | Good Tips Tuesday |Tuesday Talk|

2 CommentsFiled Under: Curriculum Planner Tagged With: curriculum pages

Persian Mosaic Craft Marco Polo Unit Study

January 6, 2015 | 5 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today we did a Persian mosaic craft for our Marco Polo Unit Study.

This unit study really lends itself to a lot of hands-on and we are not going to skimp on any of it or until Tiny has had his fill. It is going to be a big unit study so we are slowing down for this one.

Persian Mosaic Craft Marco Polo Unit Study

Covering the culture and geography of Asia takes time and it is best studied through the eyes of somebody that traveled during that time like Marco Polo.

One of the many things he would have seen along the Silk Road were the beautiful mosaics made by ancient Persian artists.

Persian Mosaic Craft for Kids

Though they would have used beads, glass, shells and just about anything they had to create their masterpiece, for this hands-on activity you too can use just about anything you have around your house.

A few ideas are:

  • pieces of aluminum foil
  • beads
  • sequins
  • seashells
  • rocks
  • macaroni, beans,etc.
  • grab some glue too

The Mr. had bought a few craft things for us when he was at the store and I picked up a few pieces of leather (pretty inexpensive here in Ecuador) and we used the leather pieces to make our mosaic.

Books About Marco Polo

First, look at these books about Marco Polo.

10 Marco Polo Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

Add some of these fun books about Marco Polo to your home library or use them in your unit studies.

Image for Marco Polo

Marco Polo

The amazing story of a Venetian trader who becomes an aide to the great Kublai Khan comes to life in this retelling for students by Manuel Komroff. Follow along as Marco Polo travels through deserts littered with bones, encounters animals previously unknown to Europeans, and comes to serve in the court of one of the greatest kingdoms ever known.Included is a gorgeous new map tracing his journey, and 29 full page illustrations from an early edition written for adults.The text in this edition is a reprint of the original Messner Biography, a series that was created for students. "Well told and with engaging narratives, they unknowingly flow nicely from story to fact. You will find a plethora of information packed between these pages, not only about the title’s subject, but the subject's time and the world they lived in."

Image for The Adventures of Marco Polo

The Adventures of Marco Polo

Was Marco Polo the world's greatest explorer -- or the world's greatest liar? Newbery Medalist Russell Freedman turns his eagle eye on the enigmatic Marco Polo in his most exciting biography yet.

He claimed to have seen rocks burn, bandits command sandstorms, lions tamed with a look, and sorcerers charm sharks while divers gathered pearls on the ocean floor. Marco Polo shook Europe with descriptions of the world he'd seen on his epic journey to the court of Kublai Khan.

But was Marco Polo the world's most accomplished explorer? Had he really seen the "Roof of the World" in Central Asia, and the "City of Heaven" in far-off China? Or was he a charlatan who saw nothing more than the conjurings of his inventive mind? Join Russell Freedman as he tackles a centuries-old mystery.

Image for The Story of Marco Polo

The Story of Marco Polo

This is volume number 22 in the Signature Books series for young readers. This series, under the general editorship of Enid Lamonte Meadowcroft, provides easy to read, exciting stories based upon the lives of historical figures. A vivid story of the life and adventures of perhaps the most romantic traveler of all time, a man who returned from the East with tales so fantastic that no one believed him until he was vindicated by later travelers.

Image for Animals Marco Polo Saw (Explorer Series)

Animals Marco Polo Saw (Explorer Series)

A continuation of the Explorers series by award-winning author Sandra Markle, Animals Marco Polo Saw brings to life the amazing, exotic animals Marco Polo encountered during his explorations in Asia, how the animals sometimes affected the outcome of the journey, and even helped the explorer survive!

Image for Marco Polo (Junior World Explorers)

Marco Polo (Junior World Explorers)

Examines the political forces and personal ambition that drove Marco Polo in his explorations.

Image for The Travels of Marco Polo

The Travels of Marco Polo

Marco Polo was the most famous traveller of his time. His voyages began in 1271 with a visit to China, after which he served the Kubilai Khan on numerous diplomatic missions. On his return to the West, he was made a prisoner of war and met Rustichello of Pisa, with whom he collaborated on this book. The accounts of his travels provide a fascinating glimpse of the different societies he encountered: their religions, customs, ceremonies and way of life; on the spices and silks of the East; on precious gems, exotic vegetation and wild beasts. He tells the story of the holy shoemaker, the wicked caliph and the three kings, among a great many others, evoking a remote and long-vanished world with colour and immediacy. He found himself traversing the most exotic lands-from the dazzling Mongol empire to Tibet and Burma. This fascinating chronicle still serves as the most vivid depiction of the mysterious East in the Middle Ages.

Image for He Went With Marco Polo

He Went With Marco Polo

Cathay is a long way from his home in Venice, but when 14-year-old gondolier, Tonio Tumba receives the chance of a lifetime, he doesn’t say no. Leaving behind his only possession, a shabby green gondola, Tonio eagerly joins Marco Polo on his adventure.

As Tonio and the Polo family travel the dangerous silk road to modern-day China, they encounter many fascinating people and dangerous perils. When Tonio rides into Cathay on one of the Khan’s elephants, he says to his friend, Pietro: “Elephants are grand… but give me a horse any time – unless I could have a gondola. When we get back to Venice, I’ll take you out in mine.”

There are many wonderful sights, amazing inventions and great riches to discover, though Tonio looks forward to getting back home - but many years will pass before his chance to see the canals of Venice again. When so much has changed, will Tonio find anything worth returning for?

Louise Andrews Kent is a master storyteller, weaving historical accuracy and immersive adventure into one epic voyage of discovery.

This new edition features all the original illustrations and clean, readable text. It is a fantastic living book teaching about history and geography, recommended for ages 10 and up.

Image for Genghis Khan and the Mongol Horde (World Landmark Books)

Genghis Khan and the Mongol Horde (World Landmark Books)

Excellent, historic story well told by Harold Lamb and beautifully illustrated by Elton Fax. Originally published in 1954, this paperback edition was released in 1982.

Image for Marco Polo: Overland to China (In the Footsteps of Explorers)

Marco Polo: Overland to China (In the Footsteps of Explorers)

Relive Italian voyager Marco Polo's adventures in China in1275, including his legendary meeting with Kublai Khan, emperor of the powerful Mongol Empire. This exciting new book separates fact from myth using excerpts from Polo's actual journals and vivid illustrations and photographs to portray Polo himself and his impressions of the unique traditions and customs of the Mongols. A recipe from the period is also included. Topics include - what the Medieval period meant to Europe and exploration - the Silk Road - Marco Polo's service in Kublai Khan's court - life at sea and in the Mongol Empire - Marco Polo's influence on later explorers Teacher's guide available.

Image for Marco Polo: his travels and adventures.

Marco Polo: his travels and adventures.

This edition is presented complete and unabridged, with larger text for easier reading by younger readers, and all the original illustrations and decorations.“I have attempted to transform the somewhat dry and monotonous translation of this narrative into an entertaining story, that may engage the attention and the interest of my young readers; for which it certainly presents ample opportunities. If the task is properly done, no one can fail to follow Marco Polo from his Venetian home, across the entire continent of Asia to the court of Kublai Khan, and in his various adventures and journeys while in the far-off Orient, without eager curiosity and ever-deepening interest. The central figure of the story is heroic, for Marco Polo was in all things manly, brave, persevering, intelligent, and chivalrous; and the scenes and incidents in which he was the leading actor were in the highest degree thrilling and dramatic.”-From the Preface by the Author.

So Tiny began to lay out his design.

After cutting out his pieces, he had to study his design for a while.

This was actually a good art lesson for him because like his mother (poor thing) he is not particularly comfortable with crafting and creating.

But because he just laps up a hands-on activity anytime we do one, I always make time for quite a few for him.

Unlike Mr. Awesome, who seizes the moment to craft and create, Tiny expects perfection every time, which is exactly why I like for him to do them. 

I want him to not be so hard on himself when it comes to creating and crafting and to lighten up some.

Have to love the many personalities you teach while homeschooling. 

One kid I have to rein in from hands-on to do some seat work and the other kid I have to unglue from the seat for some hands-on work.

Anyway, after Tiny studied his design for a while, he was satisfied and glued on all the pieces.

It makes it easy reading about Persian art and modern day Iran when your kid can do an engaging and simple activity.

We have a few more activities that we have done that I will be sharing soon, but we loved this easy peazy one.

Marco Polo Unit Study Hands-on Activities

  • Make a Persian Mosaic
  • Learn how to make the extend a timeline book
  • Make Terra Cotta Warriors
  • Grab these free Notebooking Pages
  • Create this salt dough map of the Travels of Marco Polo and grab the printable map flags.
Persian Mosaic Craft Marco Polo Unit Study

How to Get the Free Marco Polo Lapbook

Now, how to grab the free printable. It’s a subscriber freebie.

When you sign up to follow me, you get access to this freebie.

1) Sign up on my email list.
2) Grab the printable.
3) Last, look for my emails in your inbox as a follower. Glad to have you.

Marco Polo Unit Study, Lapbook, and Hands-on Ideas

5 CommentsFiled Under: Ancient Civilizations, Geography Based, Hands-On Activities, History Based Tagged With: ancient civilizations, hands on history, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling

Free Year At a Glance Form For Moms Buried in the Organizing Details

January 2, 2015 | 8 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a gorgeous free year at a glance form for you today.

I promised you that when I talked about Planning Homeschool When Drowning in a Sea of Ideas I would share my fix for my planning struggle.

Instead of staying buried in the details which I have a tendency to do on my Glam It Up Planner, Unit Study Planner and my 7 Step DIY Homeschool Planner, I always struggle with the broad strokes on any type of planning.

Year at a Glance Printable Form

First, you know I am not a fan of having house management printables, homeschooling, and blogging stuff all jumbled together in one planner.

Too, weekly homeschool planners which give you teeny tiny boxes to write in is now how I roll.

Free Year At a Glance Form For Moms Buried in the Organizing Details

Detailed day to day lesson planning requires writing space and I have found that daily planning overall is much better. 

Each area of life needs to have details worked out. With that being said, I do see adding a few pages of menu planning or week at a glance pages to keep you seeing the broad strokes while you homeschool.

And since most of us wear more than one hat whether we homeschool, we are just plain busy mommas.

So now that you know I always tackle details first and I have pages in my 7 Step DiY Homeschool Planner for looking at the big picture in those specific areas of life. But, my struggle is looking at ALL of it!

Today, I have my fix for those buried in the organizing details and I have created a free at year at a glance form. 

I wanted to keep it free so that all of you could benefit. I try to keep my prices down for my products, but I really wanted this form available to all of you so I kept it free.

I have already filled in some of my goals for January’ I’m loving this new glance at a year form because it helps to be honed in on one area of life. 

It has already helped me to clearly see projects that I need to pull back away from and look at the big picture so that I can make the next goal.

Free Year at a Glance Form

Look at the Year at a Glance form which I have for you and me. 

Print one or two or however many you need and put it with your planner to remind yourself to keep looking ahead at your yearly goals and to keep tracking them.

Can you believe that it was painful for me to create this because I wanted to fine tune it some more for detail?

I refused to let myself go there because I needed a place to plug in general homeschooling plans, personal goals and just you name it any type of goal for the year.

Also, in the busy mayhem homeschooling sometimes I have forgotten what makes me move and rock when I need to and that is inspirational quotes.


Though I tell you how much I love them and share them occasionally, I try to limit myself on posting them at the end of my blog posts sometimes because I tend to give detailed blog posts talk a lot.  I can’t help it, I have a lot to say.

Getting back to what makes me stay on fire throughout the the whole long year of homeschooling, parenting, helping other homeschoolers and generally just being energized about life, I added a section to the top of the year at a glance form on the right side for a quote of the year.

Curriculum Pages for Planner

Your quote of the year may just be a few words that you are focusing on or verse that you are fond of. 

This year I came across a saying on Pinterest which struck a chord with me.

This is the year I will be stronger, braver, kinder and UNSTOPPABLE. This year I will be FIERCE.

Some years I have just wanted to mildly goal plan and other years, like this one I need some fierceness.

With a few trips planned back to the states this year and in between catching up on homeschooling, updating my blog and writing a book along with some other changes, it will be one hectic rocking year.

By the way, I wanted to update you on what came from this form. Look at what I accomplished the next few years with this year at a glance form.

  • I wrote a book, Homeschooling 31 Day Boot Camp for New Homeschoolers: When You Don’t Know Where to Begin
  • Also, the New Homeschooler Boot Camp I taught for years in person and wrote a curriculum for, I put it online for all homeschoolers.

A bit of encouragement for you too. Whether you meet your goals or not is not the sign of success, but by planning you greatly increase your chance of successfully meeting them.

It is better to plan than to not plan.  Also, though I remind you of this, I need the reminder myself too and that is, as I explained in Planning Homeschool When Drowning in a Sea of Ideas don’t over plan.

Over planning and not meeting goals is just a road for burnout. 

With goals clearly marked in order from 1 to 12, a plan stays reachable.

Then at the bottom  of the form, I left an area for a 6 month evaluation to write in what you have successfully done and what you may want to work on half way through the year.

Too, sometimes goals can completely change mid-year. 

We may have a child struggling with a subject that we may think it will take all year to master and they may do it in three months.

Again, big picture goals change and hopefully, this general year at a glance form will keep all the goals you make wrangled in one place to remind you and me both to look up sometime.

I hope you love the new form as much I do.

Remember it’s a two page spread so be sure to bind it that way in any planner you use of mine.

Look at these other homeschool planner products that I know you’ll love!

  • Glam It Up Package

    Glam It Up Package

    $4.99
    Add to cart
  • 2. Ultimate DIY Homeschool Unit Study Planner

    2. Ultimate DIY Homeschool Unit Study Planner

    $5.99
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  • Dynamic and Fun Human Body Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic and Fun Human Body Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    $5.00
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  • Editable Homeschool Lesson Planning Pages - Mink Over You

    Editable Homeschool Lesson Planning Pages – Mink Over You

    $2.50
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  • Editable Weekly General Planning Page

    Editable Weekly General Planning Page

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  • Doodle Curriculum Planner Cover Store 1 @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus 600x

    Doodle Coloring Curriculum Planner Cover

    $1.75
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  • 0. Westward Expansion History Fun 10 Coloring Pages

    0. Westward Expansion History Fun 10 Coloring Pages

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  • Sunkissed Curriculum Planner Cover

    Sunkissed Curriculum Planner Cover

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  • 00. Ancient Civilization History 20 Coloring Pages

    00. Ancient Civilization History 20 Coloring Pages

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  • 1. The Best Undated Dynamic Daily Homeschool Planner

    1. The Best Undated Dynamic Daily Homeschool Planner

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  • Dynamic Renaissance Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic Renaissance Lapbook for Multiple Ages

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  • Dynamic Lewis and Clark Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic Lewis and Clark Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    $4.00
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7 Easy Steps DIY Homeschool Planner – “Tons of Options & Pretty Color” Begin building your planner

Step 1. Choose a Pretty Front/Back Cover

Step. 2. Choose Calendars/Appointment Keepers

Step 3. Choose Goals/Objectives

Step 4. Choose Lesson Planning Pages Right For You!

Step 5a. Choose Unique forms JUST for You! Not a kazillion other people

Step 5b. Choose MORE Unique Forms JUST for You!

Step 5c. Choose MORE MORE Unique Forms Just for You!

Step 6. Personalize It

Step 7. Bind it! Love it!

How to Download this Freebie.
It’s a Subscriber Only Gift.

From time to time, I do Subscriber Freebies only. This is a subscriber freebie. I do this to show my appreciation and because I want you to follow me and give me a chance to make a difference in your homeschool.

Too, when you join my email list, you get access to my Subscriber’s Only Exclusive Library of Freebies.

This is how you get access to this form quickly.
1) Sign up on my list.
2) Confirm your email.
3) Look for the automatic reply giving you the password to the private subscriber’s area. You should have it soon.

IF you are already a follower/subscriber, PLEASE do NOT email me asking how to find it. You may not want to wait on me replying since I get bombarded with emails.

IF you’ll find the MOST RECENT email from me, the password and link to the Subscribers Area are ALWAYS at the bottom of every email. Look for the most current email since I change the password frequently.

And be sure to check out my Free Organizing Printables Category because I plod along my blog and may have new forms that are not listed yet on one of 7 Steps.

Free Year At a Glance Form For Moms Buried in the Organizing Details

Hugs and love ya,

Year At a Glance Planning Tina's @ Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

8 CommentsFiled Under: 2. My FREE Organizing Printables {Any topic}, Curriculum Planner, Student Planners, Subscriber Freebies Tagged With: curriculum planner

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