History's Mysteries: Research, Discuss and Solve Some of History's Biggest Puzzles (Stories Without End)

Book Synopsis: “Taylor Sapp had done it again - this time with his merry band of historians! This is a valuable teaching tool to get students reading and writing!” — Nate Conrad, ELS Instructor

“...engaging, imaginative and varied, encouraging learners to think both creatively and critically about the language they use.....Easily-adaptable, relevant and a lot of fun for learners and teachers alike.” — Michael Hudson, Canary Island English

“All in all, I think this is a very fun approach to reading and intend to use some of the sections in my own reading courses.” — Joshua Detherage - Campbellsville University

“This unique book guides students through an eclectic assortment of historical readings, covering topics that include Tupac, Genghis Khan, Jack the Ripper, and the Loch Ness Monster.... ...Recommended for teachers whose students want to some explore some unusual topics of history in the classroom.” — Hall Houston, author of Provoking Thought and Creative Output

“The authors manage to create deep and engaging opportunities for critical thinking, writing, reading, and speaking all at the same time....the supplemental activities provide valuable connections to current events and the real world, adding almost infinite possibilities for authentic student interaction while supporting ease of use in the classroom for busy teachers.” — Collen Loboy, Academic Director, ELS Portland

In this original collection of research and writing projects for high-school and college, students take on the role of Historical Secret Agents.

Their mission?To go back in time and explore some of history’s most intriguing puzzles.

Why?To find out what really happened.

Who assassinated President John F. Kennedy? Why? How can you stop them?

Is the famous photo of the Loch Ness monster real or a hoax?

Who built the mysterious Pacific city of Nan Madol and how? Why did they disappear?

Was the death of Bessie Coleman, an African-American pioneer in flight, an accident or murder?

Each unit takes a historical mystery or conspiracy theory from the well-known to the obscure to the truly weird! Background briefings give key factual information and spell out the controversy, puzzle, or conspiracy. Discussion questions lead to analysis and research on what happened and what is still disputed or unknown. Writing prompts guide students to say what really happened or how they would change history if they could. Follow-up projects encourage students to dig deeper and make personal connections to history! Will students stick to the facts or get a bit creative? That’s up to you!

The perfect resource for bringing history and writing together in the classroom! Read more